In a patient with burns
(A) Carbon monoxide is highly toxic to the pulmonary tract # Inhalation injury> These occur in those trapped in enclosed spaces. They are particularly common in association with bums of the head and neck. Various parts of the respiratory tract may be injured.> The inhalation of hot gases causes a thermal burn to the upper airway. This is manifest early on by stridor, hoarseness, cough and respiratory obstruction. Inhalation of the products of combustion causes a chemical burn to the bronchial tree and lungs.> This is manifest by hypoxia, acute respiratory distress syndrome and respiratory failure; it may be of delayed onset. Systemic absorption of, in particular, carbon monoxide (but also hydrogen cyanide from burning plastics) causes poisoning.> Carbon monoxide displaces oxygen from haemoglobin to form carboxyhaemoglobin, reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. It also has intracellular effects.> Patients who survive the original incident may arrive confused or unconscious. Inhalation injury has an additive effect on mortality in all burns.
Carbon monoxide is highly toxic to the pulmonary tract
Early tracheostomy is indicated because it is difficult to pass tube through inflamed pharynx
The laryngeal edema can occur as late as 48 hours
None
Miscellaneous