Fatal Acute Airway Obstruction During Bronchoscopy-Guided Percutaneous Tracheostomy: An Analysis of a New Complication.

Percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) is a commonly performed procedure in ICUs as a safe and cost-effective alternative to surgical tracheostomy (ST). Bronchoscopy is frequently used during PT for real-time confirmation of needle placement and tube positioning. We present a case of a 42-year-old female with a complex medical history who underwent PT and experienced acute airway loss due to endotracheal tube obstruction caused by accumulated secretions. To prevent such complications, vigilance regarding airway obstruction, cautious bronchoscope advancement, avoiding endotracheal tube puncture, and readiness to abort the procedure and replace the tube are crucial.