Airway management and initial resuscitation of the trauma patient

Abstract

As trauma continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, the use of newer airway adjuncts needs to be specifically investigated in trauma patients, as this population frequently has airway management difficulties. Further research is also required to elucidate the type and amount of fluid that will provide an adequate organ perfusion without increasing nonsurgical bleeding.

Correspondence: Use of a Venner A.P. Advance videolaryngoscope in a patient with potential cervical spine injury

“…The points made by Sneyd et al [1] in their editorial are in-line with current popular opinion and will be welcomed by many readers. I would like add to their arguments regarding carbon footprints by making a case for not inviting overseas speakers to meetings.…”

“…Videolaryngoscopes permit an indirect view of the laryngeal inlet by fibre optic or camera technology without the requirement to align the oropharyngeal‐laryngeal axes, and have been shown to be effective during difficult tracheal intubation compared with standard Macintosh laryngoscopes [1]. However, most videolaryngoscopes require the clinician to learn and maintain competence in a new technique that may be infrequently used in normal practice.…”

“…This opening pressure depends on the anatomy and the presence of oedema or laryngospasm. Even an airway pressure of 30 cmH 2 O may lead to a decrease in cardiac output due to reduction of venous return [1]. Any increase in back-pressure resulting from insufficient flow release will further reduce the achievable minute volume.…”

“…I would recommend wider use of the internet at meetings both to reduce the carbon footprint and to reduce meeting costs. The anaesthetist and the environment I read Professor Sneyd's [1] editorial entitled 'The anaesthetist and the environment' with interest. I was very pleased to hear that the AAGBI has commissioned an independent review of its energy consumption and is now …”

Blood transfusion and the anaesthetist: management of massive haemorrhage

“…A rapid clinical assessment will give very strong indications of those at risk. It is important to restore organ perfusion, but it is not necessary to achieve a normal blood pressure at this stage [6–8].…”