Respiratory care clinics of North America
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Traumatic airway injuries are rare in children, partly due to their unique anatomy. The larynx is well protected from direct blows behind the mandibular arch, and only a small portion of the trachea is unprotected above the manubrium due to the relatively short neck. Furthermore, the tracheobronchial tree is less prone to injuries as compared with adults due to its elasticity. ⋯ These children need to be followed endoscopically for months and sometimes years in order to diagnose and treat stenoses as soon as they occur. Long-term pulmonary function has been shown to be excellent. Children with bilateral recurrent nerve paralysis may not fully recover voice or airway.
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Respir Care Clin N Am · Mar 2001
ReviewInitial assessment and management of pediatric trauma patient.
The initial evaluation and treatment of the pediatric trauma patient require an organized, thorough approach. All patients must be assumed to have multiple injuries until proven otherwise. ⋯ The adequate assessment and treatment of the ABCs will provide adequate treatment of the patient's other injuries, leading to an overall improvement in morbidity and mortality. Thus, the ABCs play an essential role in the initial evaluation and treatment of the pediatric trauma patient.