Airway Obstruction and Tracheostomy

Question 1

What are the causes of airway obstruction?

Answer 1

1. Laryngomalacia, stenosis, foreign body
2. Laryngitis, epiglottitis, croup, anaphylaxis
3. Tumours
4. Thermal/chemical trauma

Question 2

What are the signs of airway obstruction?

Answer 2

1. Stridor
2. Swallowing difficulties/drooling
3. Pallor/cyanosis
4. Use of accessory muscles of respiration
5. Tracheal tug

Question 3

What is the acute management of airway obstruction?

Answer 3

1. 15L non-rebreathe oxygen (consider heliox)
2. Nebulised adrenaline + IV dexamethasone 8mg
3. Call ENT/anaesthetist for help
4. Emergency needle cricothyroidotomy temporary measure (30-45 mins)
5. Endotracheal intubation 1st line airway