Fractured tracheostomy tubes in the tracheo-bronchial tree: (a report of nine cases).

A retrospective study of nine cases of fractured tracheostomy tubes presenting as foreign bodies in the tracheo-bronchial tree, seen over a period of about 8 years, has been made. The literature on this rare subject is reviewed. The presenting features, causes of failure of tracheostomy tubes and management of the problem are discussed. The causes of fracture were found to be repeated boiling, prolonged use, erosion by tracheo-bronchial secretions and manufacturing defects.