A Collapsing Airway: Tracheomalacia and Subglottic Stenosis After Repeated Intubations in a Child With Dravet Syndrome
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
10-17-2026
Abstract
A 20-month-old male with Dravet syndrome and recurrent status epilepticus developed severe tracheomalacia and subglottic stenosis after multiple intubations for respiratory failure in setting of status epilepticus. He presented with stridor, hypoxemia, and dynamic airway collapse confirmed by bronchoscopy and fluoroscopy. Management required repeated intubations, balloon dilation, and prolonged ventilatory support complicated by MRSA tracheitis. Anesthetic challenges included critical airway narrowing, risk of collapse, and coordination with seizure control. This case highlights the cumulative airway morbidity of repeated intubation and the need for multidisciplinary, anticipatory airway strategies in neurologically complex pediatric patients.
Recommended Citation
Benacquista B, Khan ST. A Collapsing airway: tracheomalacia and subglottic stenosis after repeated intubations in a child with Dravet syndrome. Presented at: American Society of Anesthesiologists, The Anesthesiology Meeting; 2026 Oct 17; San Diego, CA. Available from: https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21448/presentation/8408
Comments
American Society of Anesthesiologists, The Anesthesiology Meeting, October 16-20, 2026, San Diego, CA