Emergency Airway Management for Pediatric Blunt Neck Trauma

Pediatric laryngotracheal injuries as a result of blunt neck trauma are exceedingly rare, but they have the potential for fatal consequences if not identified and managed appropriately. Two cases on the spectrum of laryngotracheal trauma are presented followed by an overview of pediatric laryngotracheal trauma with a focus on acute airway management. Special considerations must be taken into account when evaluating and treating children with laryngotracheal injuries. Standard orotracheal intubation by direct laryngoscopy is risky, and awake tracheostomy is often not feasible.

Source: Clinical Pediatric Emergency Medicine - September 5, 2014 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: David J. Hernandez, Kris R. Jatana, Stephen R. Hoff, Jeffrey C. Rastatter Source Type: research