An Inquiry into the Comparative Value of Intubation and Tracheotomy in Laryngeal Diphtheria

Hunter, Thomas Downie (1924) An Inquiry into the Comparative Value of Intubation and Tracheotomy in Laryngeal Diphtheria. MD thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

In this thesis on the operation of election in laryngeal diphtheria, I shall first consider the merits and demerits of the rival operations apart from their results. The difficulties encountered in the performance of Intubation,such as pushing down of membrane, entrance of the Intubation tube into the oesophagus, and hooking up of the epiglottis, shall be considered. The dangers associated with the operation of Tracheotomy shall then be discussed, i.e., haemorrhage during the operation, and the danger associated with the position of the thyroid body. Examples will be given from observed cases illustrating the difficulties mentioned. (a). I shall consider under this heading the disadvantages associated with the accidental expulsion of the Intubation tube. A table, giving all the intubated oases in our series and the number of times the tube was expelled in each case, is inserted. Other writers' opinions are stated and criticised. (b). The average number of times the Intubation tube required to be re-inserted will be contrasted with the average number of times the tracheal cannula had to be replaced. A table is inserted showing the age periods of all our intubated cases and the average number of tines the tube was inserted in the respective age periods. (c). The average time the Intubation tube was required will be compared with the average time the tracheal cannula was in position. A table is inserted showing the average number of days the Intubation tube and tracheal cannula were respectively required. (d). The incidence of laryngeal stenosis in the two rival operations will then be considered. Many cases illustrative of this complication will be described in detail, and special mention will be made of the treatment of stenosis and its results. A table is inserted giving all the cases of laryngeal stenosis following Intubation, and a note on the present condition of those I managed to see and examine. (e). The incidence of broncho-pneumonia in the two rival operations is then discussed. (f). The mortality rates in the two rival operations are then dealt with, and a comparison is made between our own death rate and that of other countries. (g). Various opinions for and against these respective operations are then cited. A table is given showing the results of over 40 old cases of Intubation and Tracheotomy, with a view to forming an estimate of the ultimate condition of those who have undergone either of these operations. The conclusions, I have formed from this inquiry into the comparative value of Intubation and Tracheotomy in laryngeal diphtheria, are then stated.

• Item Type: Thesis (MD)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Keywords: Medicine
• Date of Award: 1924
• Depositing User: Enlighten Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:1924-80576
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 30 Jan 2024 14:43
• Last Modified: 30 Jan 2024 14:43
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/80576