Crushing injury of larynx and trachea digital illustration

Crushing injury of larynx and trachea Save


ICD-10 code: S17.0

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

What is a Crushing Injury of Larynx and Trachea?

A crushing injury of the larynx and trachea occurs when there is a severe compression or trauma to the throat area. This type of injury can cause damage to the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea), which can result in difficulty breathing, speaking, and swallowing.

Causes of Crushing Injury of Larynx and Trachea

Common causes of crushing injury of the larynx and trachea include:

  1. Car accidents
  2. Falls from a height
  3. Assaults or physical altercations
  4. Sports injuries
  5. Industrial accidents

Regardless of the cause, a crushing injury to the larynx and trachea should be considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Symptoms of Crushing Injury of Larynx and Trachea

The symptoms of a crushing injury to the larynx and trachea can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Hoarseness or loss of voice
  • Pain or tenderness in the throat or neck area
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Coughing up blood or mucus

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after a traumatic event, seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment for Crushing Injury of Larynx and Trachea

The treatment for a crushing injury to the larynx and trachea will depend on the severity of the injury. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tissues. Other treatments may include:

  1. Medication to manage pain and swelling
  2. Breathing assistance, such as oxygen therapy
  3. Speech therapy to help regain voice function
  4. Nutrition support, such as a feeding tube, if swallowing is difficult

Recovery time and outcomes can also vary depending on the severity of the injury. In some cases, a full recovery may be possible, while in others, there may be long-term effects on breathing, speaking, and swallowing.

Prevention of Crushing Injury of Larynx and Trachea

While accidents are not always preventable, there are some measures you can take to reduce your risk of a crushing injury to the larynx