Larynx
Laryngeal Fracture
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Laryngeal Fracture
, Laryngeal Trauma, Larynx Injury
Causes
Head and Neck
Trauma
Rare overall and especially rare in children (elastic necks)
Sports Injury
Foot
ball
Soccer
Signs
Dyspnea
Hoarseness
Subcutaneous
Emphysema
Laryngeal palpation with crepitation
Precautions
Airway compromise can develop quickly
May be delayed if obstruction due to soft tissue edema and bleeding
Imaging
CT Soft Tissue Neck
Evaluate
Larynx
as well as esophagus and vascular structures
CT
Cervical Spine
Evaluate for concurrent
Cervical Spine Injury
as indicated
Management
Complete airway obstruction or severe respiratory distress
Emergent Surgical
Consultation
Intubation
Video Laryngoscopy
or
Flexible endoscopic intubation
Cricothyrotomy
for failed intubation (Airway double set-up)
May also exacerbate Laryngeal Trauma
Management
Airway Initially Stable
Emergent surgical
Consultation
Elevate head of bed
Ice region
Encourage vocal rest
Humidified air
Antibiotics indicated for exposed laryngeal cartilage
Monitor for worsening (secure airway for changes)
Agitation
Altered Level of Consciousness
Oxygen Saturation
Cyanosis
, retractions or
Stridor
Snoring or unable to speak
References
Dreis (2020) Crit Dec Emerg Med 34(7):3-21
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