Postextubation Stridor in Children

Abstract

Postextubation stridor is a not uncommon complication of both short- and long-term intubation in children. This complication may be prevented by paying attention to the details of pediatric intubation (correct tube, correct fixation), by repeated measurements of cuff pressure when a cuffed tube is used, and by adequate sedation of the agitated patient. Steroids have not shown to be significantly effective in preventing post-intubation upper airway obstruction. Management is by providing a reassuring environment, oxygenation and re-intubation with a smaller size tube where necessary. Although racemic adrenaline and steroids have traditionally been used in the management of this complication, their efficacy has not been proven in clinical trials