Emergency care of severe facial injuries

In the absence of other life-threatening problems and with the airway adequate and bleeding contained, the emergency phase is now under control. At this point, priorities can be assigned for additional diagnostic procedures and definitive care. Further, as indicated above, one should be able to list precautions necessary in obtaining x-rays, in transporting the patient, or in other necessary manipulations. And finally, before progressing any further in diagnosis and treatment, record the data base of acute care and examination. This document anticipates problems and is essential if the patient's status later changes. Further, since most serious injuries involve liability considerations, the creation of an accurate initial record is totally dependent upon the attending physician. In summary, during the acute or emergency phase of care, the only considerations related to facial injury are airway maintenance, bleeding control, and determining whether more serious problems are present. Then and only then does the face itself merit attention.