Airway management with videolaryngoscope in maxillofacial trauma

Abstract

Trauma in general remains a health problem in developing countries such as Honduras, so the comprehensive management of these patients is essential to control mortality. Maxillo- facial trauma is a challenge for the anesthesiologist due to its proximity to the airway. Although the incidence of airway trauma is low, the problem lies in the high mortality rate associated with this type of injury. Because airway injuries occur infrequently, it can be difficult to maintain assessment and management skills, leaving staff less prepared to deal with such situations. The objective was to describe the management of difficult airways due to facial trauma using a video laryngoscope. This clinical case represents a classic maxillofacial trauma in Honduras. A young patient driving a motor vehicle under the influ- ence of alcohol suffered a significant facial fracture requiring emergency surgical interven- tion due to airway compromise. It is concluded that securing the airway will always be the most important priority, regardless of the method used, and that the use of a video laryngo- scope has proven to be an advantageous and extremely useful alternative. Therefore, its use will continue to increase. Airway management should be direct laryngoscopy and manual neck stabilization, but if a video laryngoscope is available, it could very well be the first option.