Post-tracheostomy tracheo-oesophageal fistula - an unusual presentation

Tracheostomy, one of the oldest known surgical procedures in the history of medicine, is regularly performed in modern intensive care units. Acquired ulcerative tracheo-oesophageal fistula (TOF) is an uncommon but potentially fatal complication of tracheostomy. We report a case of ulcerative TOF with an unusual yet characteristic presentation, in a ventilator-dependent tracheostomised patient with Guillain-Barre syndrome. It presented as sudden progressive severe abdominal distension that was rhythmic with each ventilator breath. The predisposing factors, clinical features and preventive measures of post-tracheostomy TOF are discussed in this case report. Regular monitoring of tracheal tube cuff pressures and volumes, along with avoidance and treatment of various predisposing factors, are advisable for the prevention of this serious consequence.