title: Airway management and mechanical ventilation.
abstract: The care of the acutely head-injured patient involves rapid evaluation and correction of hypoxia with appropriate airway management and treatment of associated problems. The primary focus is correction of underlying pathophysiology and prevention of secondary brain injury. Anesthetics and muscle relaxants are used to control intracranial dynamics and maintain systemic and cerebral perfusion. Airway management requires prompt intervention and definitive control, while protecting the cervical spine. Preparation for the possibility of failed intubation is important.
mesh_terms: D000777:Anesthetics / Q000494:pharmacology; D016489:Head Injuries, Closed / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D000860:Hypoxia / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000379:methods; D009466:Neuromuscular Blocking Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000379:methods*; D012138:Respiratory Therapy / Q000379:methods*
chemical_list: D000777:Anesthetics; D009466:Neuromuscular Blocking Agents