A rare cause of stridor in a 59 year old woman in intensive care

Introduction Stridor in the post extubation period occurs frequently and is most commonly caused by laryngeal oedema. During this period, the trachea can also be obstructed by pseudo-membranes. Case report We report the case of a 59 year old woman who required re-intubation, 15 days after extubation because of the acute onset of severe respiratory distress secondary to pseudo-membranes in her trachea. Conclusion It is essential that physicians who care for patients during the post extubation period are aware of this severe and life threatening cause of stridor. Definitive treatment with the rigid bronchoscope allows for rapid recanalisation of the airway.