We go into one of the more complex injuries – blunt neck trauma.

Hosts:
Audrey Bree Tse, MD
Brian Gilberti, MD



https://media.blubrry.com/coreem/content.blubrry.com/coreem/Blunt_Neck_Injuries.mp3



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Tags: Trauma





Show Notes
Overview

Blunt neck trauma comprises 5% of all neck trauma
Mortality due to loss of airway more so than hemorrhage

Mechanism

MVCs with cervical hyperextension, flexion, rotation during rapid deceleration, direct impact  
Strangulation: hanging, choking, clothesline injury (see section on strangulation in this chapter)
Direct blows: assault, sports, falls

Initial Management/Primary Survey

Airway

Evaluate for airway distress (stridor, hoarseness, dysphonia, dyspnea) or impending airway compromise
Early aggressive airway control: low threshold for intubation if unconscious patient, evidence of airway compromise including voice change, dyspnea, neurological changes, or pulmonary edema
Assume a difficult airway 


Breathing


Supplemental oxygen