ENT Emergencies Flashcards
What is important to consider in nasal trauma?
When it occurred
Mechanism of action
If epistaxis
If breathing issues
What is vital to exclude in a patient with nasal trauma?
Septal haematoma
Why is a septal haematoma so serious?
As cartilage of the nose is cut off from the mucosa, resulting in a loss of blood supply.
May lead to infection and subsequent necrosis. Also provides a route for infection to spread to the deeper structure of the cranial cavity.
How should septal haematomas be managed?
Drainage and immediate ENT referral.
How quickly should a nasal fracture be manipulated into the correct position following injury?
Within 3 weeks.
What are the 3 most common complications of nasal trauma?
Epistaxis
CSF leak
Anosmia
What is the most common site for nose bleeding?
Little’s area
Is sedation used in the management of episatxis?
No, as may lead to aspiration of blood.
How should drainage of a pinna haematoma be managed?
Drainage
If not restored, will result in ‘cauliflower’ ear.
How should sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss be managed?
High dose steroids (1mg/kg) and refer urgently.
Give for 1-2 weeks - can be given intratympanically.
In neck trauma, which scan can be used to assess for injury to the deep vessels?
CT angiogram
How may a blowout fracture present?
History of trauma
Pain
Decreased acuity
Diplopia
What is Le Fort classification used for?
The classification of midfacial fractures.
