Table 1 Proposed focused airway ultrasound findings in correlation to the Schaefer Classification System and standard management of laryngeal injury
From: Novel role of focused airway ultrasound in early airway assessment of suspected laryngeal trauma
Group -Based on Schaefer classification [1] | CT scan findings -Based on Schaefer classification [1] | Focused airway ultrasound findings | |
|---|---|---|---|
Group 1 | Minor endolaryngeal hematoma or laceration without detectable fracture | Endolaryngeal hematoma without detectable fracture | Supportive care including observation, antibiotics, humidified air, supplemental oxygen, anti-reflux medications, voice rest and early steroid administration. *Patients with Group 2 injuries should be serially examined, since the injuries may worsen or progress with time. Occasionally group 2 injuries may require a tracheotomy |
Group 2 | Edema, hematoma, minor mucosal disruption without exposed cartilage, nondisplaced fracture noted on CT | Edema, endolaryngeal hematoma, minor mucosal disruption without exposed cartilage, nondisplaced fracture Mucosal hematoma/edema Nondisplaced fracture of cartilage framework | |
Group 3 | Massive edema, mucosal tear, exposed cartilage, cord immobility, displaced fracture | Edema, cord immobility, displaced fracture Vocal fold immobility Obvious displaced fracture | Direct laryngoscopy, esophagoscopy and immediate open surgical repair is deemed necessary due to extension of injuries |
Group 4 | Addition of more than two fracture lines or massive trauma to laryngeal mucosa | Addition of more than two fracture lines Comminuted fracture of laryngeal cartilage framework | |
Group 5 | Complete laryngeal separation |