Laryngeal trauma. Diagnosis and management

Acute laryngeal trauma caused by either blunt or penetrating injuries is a difficult airway management problem. Patients may be aphonic or intubated due to the injury, and important historical facts may not be available. Because of this, the recognition and initial proper management of this injury is essential to a successful outcome. Flexible endoscopy provides an easy and accurate examination of the injured larynx without risk of injury to the patient. Assessment of vascular and esophageal injuries is also the key in management of this patient group. The use of CT imaging helps delineate injuries that are not well defined by physical examination. Immediate operative intervention with repair of mucosal injuries and stabilization of cartilaginous framework usually results in good airway and voice quality.