Life-threatening Tracheostomy Site Bleeding from Granulation Tissue Mimicking Tracheo-innominate fistula

Abstract

Tracheostomy is a common life- saving procedure carried out for variety of indications. Of the various complications, profuse stomal bleeding could either be due to granulation tissues or major vessel fistula. We report one such case where there was repeated profuse bleeding mimicking tracheo-innominate fistula. A preliminary CT-angiogram was done, that ruled out fistula and it was safely tackled by bipolar diathermy in the operating theater. Had it been the alternative diagnosis it would definitely require a vascular surgeon. Thus CT-angiogram could be a useful investigation to pin down the cause and appropriate management