Intra-Tracheal Migration of the Tracheotomy Cannula: A Case Report

Tracheotomy is a lifesaving procedure often performed by intensivists and emergency physicians. Depending on the indication for its performance, it can be either temporary or permanent. In the latter case, the use of a tracheotomy cannula can expose the patient to numerous and severe complications. We present a very rare case of a 65-year-old diabetic on oral antidiabetics, operated 7 years ago for laryngeal carcinoma and has since been carrying a short MG Krishaber-type tracheotomy cannula. The patient was admitted to the emergency department reporting intra-tracheal migration of his cannula after he had used scissors to separate the collar from the cannula due to discomfort. Thus, it was successfully extracted using the flexible bronchoscope. The patient was discharged with a new cannula and was sensitized to the importance of consulting his doctor for any complications, discomfort, or issues with the cannula.