Descending mediastinitis with mediastinal abscess after supracricoid partial laryngectomy

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2013 Jun;122(6):369-73. doi: 10.1177/000348941312200604.

Abstract

We document a rare and not-yet-reported condition after supracricoid partial laryngectomy: the development of descending mediastinitis with mediastinal abscess. We present a case in which early diagnosis and team management allowed for a successful outcome. The pathophysiology of this severe complication, as well as its diagnosis, management, and prevention, is discussed, together with a review of the medical scientific literature.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abscess / complications
  • Abscess / surgery*
  • Aged
  • Humans
  • Laryngeal Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Laryngeal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Laryngectomy / methods*
  • Male
  • Mediastinal Diseases / complications*
  • Mediastinal Diseases / surgery*
  • Mediastinitis / complications*
  • Mediastinitis / physiopathology
  • Mediastinitis / surgery*
  • Thoracic Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Vocal Cords