Laryngotracheal trauma: observations on its pathogenesis and its prevention following prolonged orotracheal intubation in the adult.

The authors have clinically examined the larynges of 117 patients who were successfully extubated in a Respiratory Care Unit, and have examined the larynges at autopsy from an additional 68 patients who failed to survive in the same Respiratory Care Unit. Based on these observations, our understanding of the pathogenesis of laryngotracheal trauma has allowed us to modify our clinical management in order to minimize such damage. Influence of this study on the management of patients is described.