THE purpose of this presentation is to draw attention to the need for immediate treatment of those individuals receiving blunt or penetrating injuries to the larynx, trachea, and associated structures. The increasing incidence of injury to these structures occurring in vehicular, military, and other forms of trauma creates a problem, the solution of which, depends upon prompt recognition and treatment by medical personnel. The factors to be considered in the care of these injuries are the subject of this discussion.
Classification
Injuries to the larynx, trachea, and such associated structures as the hypopharynx, esophagus, and soft tissues of the anterior region of the neck require immediate attention and classification. A number of questions must be answered immediately in order to determine the necessary course to follow. Is the injury open or closed? What structures are obviously involved? What associated injuries are present, particularly those which may denote central nervous system