Injuries of the Trachea and Major Bronchi

Abstract

Tracheal and bronchial injuries are among the more serious consequences of chest trauma. Bronchoscopy and, on occasion, bronchography are essential to establish the diagnosis. Emergency management is based on maintenance of an airway and good ventilatory mechanics.

Early surgical repair is essential to survival for many patients. For others it may mean avoidance of late life-threatening or function-threatening sequelae.