International journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery
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Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg · Apr 2008
ReviewAdvanced trauma life support (ATLS) and facial trauma: can one size fit all? Part 2: ATLS, maxillofacial injuries and airway management dilemmas.
Maxillofacial trauma poses an obvious threat to the patient's airway, which may not be immediately evident. In the multiply injured patient, the co-existence of actual or potential injuries elsewhere may complicate airway management, notably in the presence of full spinal immobilization. Following high-velocity trauma, injuries to the cervical spine must be assumed to be present. ⋯ Prolonged immobilization is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. A number of protocols currently exist for 'clearing' the spine. Imaging now plays a greater role, especially in the obtunded, unconscious or intubated patient, and this is discussed.