Airway Management in Trauma

The treatment of the seriously injured patient requires rapid assessment of the injuries and institution of lifepreserving therapy.Inadequate delivery of oxygenated blood to the brain and other vital structures is the quickest killer of the injured.Ensuring an unobstructed airway and adequate oxygenation are first priorities in the resuscitation of the trauma patient.Unlike the elective surgical patient the trauma patients present many challenges (Figure 1).A diverse array of equipment and skills are necessary for optimal airway management. 1 These include: 1. Basic Airway Management: a. Application of supplemental oxygen (100% oxygen by partial or non-rebreather mask).