Laryngospasm Flashcards
1
Q
What is laryngospasm?
A
Form of airway obstruction caused by involuntary contraction of the vocal cords
2
Q
What are the clinical features of laryngospasm?
A
- Inspiratory stridor
- Desaturation
- Bradycardia
- Cyanosis
- Increased inspiratory effort/tracheal tug
- Paradoxical chest/abdominal movement
3
Q
What are possible etiologies of laryngospasm?
A
Airway irritation/obstruction 2/2 blood or secretions
aspriation or regurgitation
excessive stimulation (e.g. suctioning)
light anesthesia
4
Q
What are possible etiologies of stridor?
A
- Laryngospasm
- anatomic/acquired malformations (foreign body, large tonsils, large epiglottis, congenital)
- infection
- neoplasms
- neurologic disorders - bulbar palsy, MG
- trauma
- allergic reaction
- vascular rings
5
Q
What is the management of laryngospasm?
A
- Stop offending stimulation/surgery; consider need for help
- 100% oxygen
- Open airway (jaw thrust)
- Deepen anesthesia
- Positive pressure mask ventiltion
- If unsuccessful, treat with sux
- If bradycardia, use atropine
- If no improvement, intubate/ventilate
