Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and its Outcome after Near Hanging

Abstract Hanging is one of the most common methods of suicide worldwide. Hanging can cause death due to various processes that function separately or in combination. There are not many studies which show acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) as a complication of near hanging. A 28-year-old married female was admitted with an alleged history of suicidal hanging. Radiographic evaluation showed bilateral widespread pulmonary edema with infiltrates. The patient was intubated in view of respiratory distress and low Glasgow Coma Scale. Lung protective inverse ratio ventilation was done. Bronchoscopy was done in view of atelectasis, and the mucus plug was removed. Tracheostomy was done in view of prolonged ventilation. Sedation was interrupted, and spontaneous breathing trial was given. With the above treatment, the patient’s general condition improved. ARDS, a complication of near hanging with early resuscitation and aggressive management, can lead to complete recovery without any complication.