Upper Airway Obstruction Flashcards

1
Q

What are the causes of upper airway obstruction?

A
  1. Congenital - tracheal stenosis

2. Acquired - infection, trauma, malignant tumour, inflammation

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2
Q

How is a suspected upper airway obstruction assessed?

A
  1. Admit even if for a short period for observation
  2. Cyanosis is a very late sign
  3. Stridor? RR >20? Sats falling (late in children and elderly)?
  4. Count from 1-10 without stopping/gasping for air?
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3
Q

How can you tell if an upper airway obstruction is severe?

A

Sat up, intercostal recession, accessory muscles, tracheal tug, stridor, cyanosis.

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4
Q

What is the medical management of upper airway obstruction?

A
  1. Oxygen via nasal prongs
  2. Nebulised adrenaline
  3. Heliox, less dense than air, more oxygen gets to lungs.
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5
Q

What is the surgical management for upper airway obstruction?

A
  1. Endotracheal intubation (anaesthetist)
  2. Cricothyroidotomy (absolute emergency, insert hollow tube into trachea through cricothyroid ligament)
  3. Thyroidectomy (consult seniors but do not leave too late)
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