Society of Black Academic SurgeonsIndications for intubation and early tracheostomy in patients with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

BackgroundStevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) result in epidermal sloughing and mucositis. There are no published guidelines for intubation and early tracheostomy in this patient population.MethodsA retrospective chart review of 40 patients admitted from 2010 to 2015 with SJS and TEN was conducted. Descriptive statistics and significance were calculated.ResultsOf the 43% of patients who underwent early tracheostomy, 100% had oral involvement while the initial total body surface area (TBSA) was 70% or more in 41% of patients (P < .05). TBSA progressed 15% or more in 53% of patients with 6% having airway involvement and a neurologic diagnosis mandating intubation. Mortality was 17%.ConclusionsIndications for intubation and early tracheostomy for SJS and TEN are documented oral involvement plus one of the following: initial TBSA 70% or more; progression of TBSA involved from hospital day 1 to hospital day 3, 15% TBSA or more; underlying neurologic diagnosis preventing airway protection; and documented airway involvement on direct laryngoscopy.