Pathophysiology and management of Airway Trauma

SummaryTrauma to the larynx and tracheo-bronchial tree can result from blunt or penetrating injury and is associated with a high mortality despite improvement in emergency services. Prompt diagnosis of impending respiratory failure and securing the airway without causing further damage remains the first priority in patients with laryngotracheal injury. The technique used for securing the airway should be tailored according to the state of the patient, site of injury and available facilities. In addition to discussing the ideal airway management techniques that should be used in these patients, the paper provides an overview of the common airway management techniques that have previously been used and are reported in literature.