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Emerg Med J 2006;23:815-816 doi:10.1136/emj.2006.038737
  • Emergency casebook

Case of the month: A case of airway obstruction following tenecteplase administration

  1. L Kirkham,
  2. J Homewood,
  3. P Brook
  1. Department of Anaesthetics, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, UK
  1. Correspondence to:
 Dr L Kirkham
 Department of Anaesthetics, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK; kirkhamlucy{at}hotmail.com
  • Accepted 28 May 2006

Abstract

The value of thrombolysis in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction is well established. Haemorrhage into subcutaneous tissues is fortunately a rare complication of fibrinolytic administration. However, if as a result of trauma a haematoma develops within the neck following thrombolysis, it can lead to rapid airway compromise. This is the first reported case of tenecteplase administration leading to subcutaneous haemorrhage and consequent airway compromise. It is also the first reported case where the antecedent trauma was a jaw thrust.

Footnotes

  • Competing interests: there are no competing interests

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