Management of Neck Trauma: a surgeon's perspective

Abstract

The neck is tightly packed with critical vascular, aero-digestive, nervous and spinal structures. All patients with neck injuries are initially managed with basic ATLS principles of Primary and Secondary survey. Unstable patients should be taken to the operating room expeditiously while stable patients need a systematic approach to diagnose or rule out major injury. Liberal use of MDCT-A and the ‘no-zone’ approach are the recent developments in the management of these potentially devastating injuries. A systematic approach with adequate preparation – blood products, appropriate equipment and skilled personnel – are key to optimal outcomes.