Airway Emergency in a Primigravida Associated With Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion and Placental Abruption Leading to Emergent Cesarean Delivery: A Case Report.
Emily G Bliss, Bryce M Marshall, Gregory L Rose et al.
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Case in brief
A 23-year-old primigravida with a history of paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder (PVFM) presented with recurrent stridor and acute respiratory distress, requiring endotracheal intubation. An emergency cesarean delivery was performed due to non-reassuring fetal heart tones, during which a placental abruption was incidentally identified. The case underscores the complexities of managing airway emergencies in pregnant patients with PVFM.
What made this case unusual
The case highlights the unexpected association between acute-on-chronic PVFM episodes and placental abruption, which is not commonly reported.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should be aware that pregnancy-related changes can exacerbate PVFM, increasing the risk of respiratory distress and complicating emergency airway management.
Why it matters
This case emphasizes the need for close monitoring of pregnant patients with PVFM due to their heightened risk for difficult airways and potential adverse outcomes.