Unexpected folding of the endobronchial segment of double-lumen tube during intubation: A case report

ABSTRACT

The double-lumen tube is widely used in various kinds of cardiothoracic surgery as a facilitation for easier procedures. Silbroncho(R) (Fuji systems, Tokyo, Japan) double-lumen tube, which is made of flexible silicone material, reduces injury to the tracheal and bronchial mucosa during intubation. The bronchial lumen is wire-reinforced to maintain tip angulation and prevent bending or obstruction. However, its increased flexibility resulted in distortion, especially when we encountered resistance to passage. We document an unusual complication case which involved folding of the endobronchial segment of the double-lumen tube after blind intubation in difficult airways.