Airway management in a patient with blunt trauma neck: A concern for anesthesiologist

Abstract

Laryngo-tracheal injuries resulting from blunt trauma neck are fortunately rare, but may have dire consequences. A high index of suspicion is required to make the diagnosis. Here we report a case of airway management of a patient with blunt trauma neck with tracheal tear posted for tracheal tear repair under GA. Tracheostomy, FOB guided intubation and direct laryngoscopy are the standard methods used to secure the airway in these patients, but sometimes they may aggravate the underlying injury. Technique of choice depends upon patient’s condition, urgency, and experience of anesthesiologist and surgeon.

Keywords

• Blunt neck trauma
• Tracheal tear
• Airway management
• Fiberoptic bronchoscope