CHALLENGES OF AIRWAY MANAGEMENT IN A PATIENT WITH MAXILLOFACIAL INJURY IN A RESOURCE POOR ENVIRONMENT.
Author(s): Onwuadika PU; Eshiet Al; Ilori IU; Kalu Q; Beshel-Akpeke RA; Ebeiyamba A; Ukpabio IE; Ugot FB; Enabulele JO
Institute(s): Department of Anaesthesiology, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar.
Volume 2 / Issue 1
Abstract
Maxillofacial injuries can be frightening. It often presents with disfiguring facial appearance. These injuries usually result from high velocity trauma. Advance Life Trauma Support (ALTS) recommends that, in management of patients with Life- threatening injuries, airway maintenance with cervical spine immobilization should be the first priority. Securing the airway in these patients is often difficult in spite of all modalities available, because these injuries are often complicated by injuries to various routes of intubation, associated C-spine injury, and high risk of regurgitation and aspiration. Difficult airway should always be anticipated and planned for. Good assessment of the injuries and careful formulation of airway management plan is very essential for better outcome.
Number of Pages: 7
Number of Words: 3465
First Page: 16
Last Page: 22