Inadvertent Uvula Injury During Anaesthesia: A Case Report

Abstract

Postoperative sore throat is a frequent complication following general anaesthesia. However, postoperative sore throat that is related to uvular injury is uncommon. Uvular necrosis occurs as a result of iatrogenic uvular injury and only becomes apparent after the patient is extubated and presented with abnormal sensation, dysphagia, or sore throat. Uvular necrosis is rare, and it is possibly an under-reported complication. Although the management of uvular injury is usually conservative, the complication of uvular injury resulting in pharyngeal dryness and discomfort may be distressing to the patient. In this article, we present a case of an inadvertent uvula injury following general anaesthesia and endotracheal intubation who subsequently made a full recovery. We would like to highlight on careful assessment of risk factor as well as airway and implement preventive measures to prevent uvula injury during anaesthesia.