Complete laryngotracheal separation following attempted hanging

Clin Exp Otorhinolaryngol. 2012 Sep;5(3):177-80. doi: 10.3342/ceo.2012.5.3.177. Epub 2011 Nov 29.

Abstract

Laryngotracheal separation (LTS) is the most immediately life-threatening airway injury. LTS is so rare that very few otolaryngologists have experience with it. LTS is one of the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in airway diseases and its management remains to be established. We experienced a patient with complete LTS after attempted hanging. A high index of suspicion, adequate imaging, prompt airway establishment and early surgical repair are the most vital factors in managing a patient with LTS.

Keywords: Hanging; Laryngotracheal separation.