Airway Management in Trauma Patients

Abstract

Airway assessment and management is the first priority in trauma care. The airway can be compromised by traumatic injuries or altered mentation. Airway assessment is conducted during the primary survey. Airway triage in trauma is determined by patient and environmental factors. Initial interventions include positioning maneuvers and suction to clear the airway with supplemental oxygen. Endotracheal intubation and surgical (or "front of neck") airways are considered definitive. Traumatic airway injuries are rare but have high mortality and morbidity if undetected.

Keywords: Airway; Injury; Trauma.