Tracheal deviation

Abnormal displacement of the trachea from its normal midline position in the neck or upper mediastinum toward or away from one hemithorax, typically reflecting asymmetric pressure or volume changes within the thorax or cervical region.

Causes

• Causes pushing the trachea away (mass effect / increased pressure)

  • Tension pneumothorax

  • Large pleural effusion

  • Goiter or thyroid enlargement

  • Mediastinal tumor (e.g., lymphoma)

  • Large mediastinal masses

• Causes pulling the trachea toward the affected side (volume loss)

  • Atelectasis

  • Pulmonary fibrosis

  • Pneumonectomy

  • Tuberculosis-related lung scarring