Uvular necrosis after endotracheal intubation or upper endoscopy is rare. We report
here on a case of uvular necrosis and ulceration after endoscopy. The combination
of ulceration and necrosis suggests uvular ischemia during endoscopy. The uvula may
have been sandwiched between the shaft of the endoscope and the gum or hard palate,
or may have been pressed against the posterior pharynx, leading to prolonged ischemia
and resultant ulceration and necrosis. Uvular trauma can also be caused by oral pharyngeal
suction. We recommend that post-endoscopy uvular necrosis should be managed conservatively
based on the patient's symptoms. In all reported cases, and in the present case as
well, the uvula healed and the symptoms resolved within 2 weeks (5 - 14 days) after
the procedure. The uvula regained its normal appearance. Overall, these patients should
have a good clinical outcome.
References
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