In this episode we feature two cases of worsening upper airway swelling leading to fatal airway obstruction following routine extubation of patients after surgery. Despite many advances in airway management, extubation-related incidents have not reduced. The cases highlight the actions leading to the loss of airway protection, a failure to recognise the severity of the situation, and an inability to salvage the situation.

We also welcome a new narrator Ashleigh Redmond who is a practising registered nurse and actor. This is Episode Twelve of our podcast series and features material from our June 2023 print edition of the Clinical Communiqué.

Episode Contents

• 01:48 Editorial by Associate Professor Nicola Cunningham
• 06:15 Case #1: A fatal toothache by Suzanne Doherty
• 19:54 Case #2: Pulling teeth and tubes - a cautionary tale by Dr Jack D'Arcy
• 36:28 Expert Commentary by Dr Louise Ellard: Extubation: An assessment of risk and strategy