Pediatric tracheal trauma

Maria Carratola; Catherine K Hart

doi:10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2021.151057

Pediatric tracheal trauma

Semin Pediatr Surg. 2021 Jun;30(3):151057. doi: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2021.151057. Epub 2021 May 21.

Authors

Maria Carratola¹, Catherine K Hart²

Affiliations

¹ Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue, MLC 2018, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
² Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue, MLC 2018, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA. Electronic address: Catherine.Hart@cchmc.org.

PMID: 34172217
DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2021.151057

Abstract

Tracheal trauma is an uncommon but potentially serious cause of airway injury in children. Presentation may be acute in cases of blunt or penetrating trauma, or delayed in cases of chronic irritation or indwelling endotracheal tubes. Symptoms include dyspnea, progressive respiratory distress, neck and chest swelling and ecchymosis, and dysphonia. Workup is pursued as allowed by the patient's clinical status and may include plain radiography, computed tomography, and endoscopy. Accuracy and efficiency of diagnosis is paramount for those at risk of rapid decompensation. Treatment may include observation, elective and strategic intubation, or primary surgical repair.

Keywords: airway disruption; airway trauma; pediatric.

MeSH terms

Child
Humans
Intubation, Intratracheal
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Trachea / diagnostic imaging
Trachea / surgery
Tracheal Diseases*
Wounds, Nonpenetrating* / diagnostic imaging
Wounds, Nonpenetrating* / surgery