Managing airway emergencies on the Ward: Lessons learned from Rapid Rhino pack herniation

Abstract

Managing epistaxis is a skill encountered by both maxillofacial and ENT trainees. This case report details an incident where a patient's airway was compromised due to the herniation of a Rapid Rhino pack. The airway distress occurred after nasal packing, necessitating emergency intervention. The ENT team assessed the patient, discovering a Rapid Rhino pack obstructing the airway. Immediate A-E assessment was completed and the pack was removed nasally. The cause of the herniation was considered to be anatomical, a defective pack, overinflation, or a combination of these factors.