Ouvrir le cou quand on ne voit rien

Definitive Management of a Traumatic Airway: Case Report
Fabich RA et Al. , MILITARY MEDICINE, 185, 1/2:e312, 2020

 

Maxillofacial and neck trauma from penetrating injuries present unique challenges for anesthesia providers and surgeons. In the austere conditions of a combat setting these challenges may be amplified due to limited resources and injury severity. Currently there is a lack of evidence and consensus on how to best manage a traumatized airway in this situation. The authors of this paper present the successful emergency management of a traumatized airway from a severe maxillofacial and neck-penetrating wound. A stepwise team approach using strong communication and a global mental model facilitated definitive airway management in this case allowing for safe transport to definitive care.