Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema due to foreign body aspiration

A patient who developed non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema secondary to acute airway obstruction caused by an aspirated foreign body is presented. The l iterature is reviewed, discussing the theories regarding the formation of n on-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema, The case highlights the importance of this rare complication of foreign body aspiration and surgeons and anaesthetist s should be alert to continued respiratory symptoms following relief of acu te airway obstruction.