Emergency airway management and critical care issues for the child with a difficult airway

The acutely ill child with a difficult airway problem requires collaboration among pediatric emergency medicine physicians, anesthesiologists, otolaryngologists, and intensivists to prevent or reduce morbidity and mortality. Understanding the anatomic, physiologic, and psychological differences in differently aged children is important to provide appropriate care to this patient population. Care of the critically injured patient begins with airway management. A common theme will be seen throughout this chapter: preparation, planning, and training will minimize the potential for complications related to the care of the intubated infant or child.