prolonged intubation during the course of a critical illness
subglottic stenosis from prior trauma
obstruction from obesity for sleep apnea
congenital (inherited) abnormality of the larynx or trachea
severe neck or mouth injuries
inhalation of corrosive material smoke or steam
presence of a large foreign body that occludes the airway
paralysis of the muscles that affect swallowing causing a danger of aspiration
long term unconsciousness or coma
Update Date: 1/30/2007Updated by: Ravindra Uppaluri, MD. Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.