Cause
Mechanisms
Neck hematoma & Bleeding(1)
  • Failure of haemostasis
  • Haematoma can causing airway compression
Laryngeal Oedema(1)
  • Traumatic intubation
  • Complex surgery
  • Reduced venous drainage
Tracheomalacia (1)(Rare)
  • Sustained compression from large goitre
  • Pressure atrophy and erosion of the cartilaginous tracheal rings results in post-operative A-P collapse of the trachea
Laryngeal Tetany due to Hypocalcaemia(1) (Rare)
  • Unintended trauma or removal of parathyroid glands
  • Severe hypocalcemia can induce tetany and laryngospasm
  • Permanent hypocalcemia is rare but transient hypocalcemia seen in up to 20% of patients
  • Generally presents at 24-48 hours postoperatively