Journal of clinical anesthesia
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Pulmonary edema developing after the relief of upper airway obstruction has been reported in association with a diversity of etiologic factors, including hanging, strangulation, tumors, foreign bodies, goiter, and laryngospasm. Since 1977, 18 cases of adults with postobstructive pulmonary edema associated with anesthesia have been reported. ⋯ Risk factors for the development of upper airway obstruction have been identified in the majority of these cases. A heightened awareness among anesthesiologists of this poorly recognized and hence often perplexing syndrome may help reduce the occurrence and facilitate the treatment of this potential complication of perioperative airway management.