Emergency management of a giant compressive goitre: a case report

Compressive goitre is a public health emergency due to the risk of asphyxia caused by compression of bronchial tree. We report the case of a 48-year-old female patient presenting to the emergency department with laryngeal dyspnea due to compressive goitre. We conducted a study and a literature review focusing on the clinical and radiological features of compressive goitre and different treatment options. The management of a patient with compressive goitre is difficult and must be rapid, due to the high risk of asphyxia. It requires a multidisciplinary approach of an experienced surgical team, including ENT and thoracic surgeons.