OBJECTIVES:
External trauma to the larynx can threaten not only life but also the quality of life. Laryngeal fracture patients can present with a spectrum of clinical findings ranging from normal to airway collapse and death. We will therefore examine and emphasize clinical presentation, an algorithm for correct diagnosis and acute airway management, radiologic/physical exam findings, and demonstrate the appropriate surgical approach for optimum clinical outcome in cases of blunt and penetrating laryngeal injury. Herein we present one of the largest series of management of laryngeal and tracheal fractures in the literature from a tertiary care level 1 trauma center.
STUDY DESIGN:
A retrospective chart review from 1998-2008.
METHODS:
A retrospective chart analysis of patients presenting to the otolaryngology service.
RESULTS:
Our series consisted of 12 males and 1 female with a mean age of 39 years presenting with laryngeal fractures caused by blunt (n=11) or penetrating (n=2) trauma. One patient presented with complete laryngotracheal separation which was successfully managed by immediate tracheostomy and early surgical intervention. The other 12 patients had a combination of conservative (n= 6) and surgical (n=7) management. All patients who required a tracheotomy (n=7) were de-cannulated.