Laryngospasm

A laryngospasm (also known as the glottis or laryngeal spasm ) is a cramp of the glottis of the larynx, which prevents the inhalation of liquids, etc. even with total unconsciousness and the associated muscle relaxation. It is an effective protection mechanism.

Causes

A laryngospasm is frequently observed by aspirated water drops in water sports (such as diving ). The cessation of breathing normally leads to panic and not infrequently to unconsciousness. While the spasm resolves approximately 90 % of those affected by the faint again, it comes in about 10% ( the diver ) to a persistent airway obstruction and thus, inter alia, to dry drowning. The reason for this however is not the seizure itself, but that the causes triggering the spasm could not be eliminated by the involuntary with the onset of spontaneous breathing cough reflexes.

For induction of anesthesia or outtake but the laryngospasm is a dreaded complication. It takes place in this case due to the manipulation and irritation (excitation ) of the lower airways in endotracheal intubation or extubation. The high vacuum with a closed glottis may cause lung edema ( noncardiogenic pulmonary edema ).

Treatment

In general, the spasm resolves when the cause of the irritation is removed.

In emergency medicine sufficient for mild cases, a positive pressure ventilation with a mask, otherwise the spasm must be solved with the aid of muscle relaxants ( succinylcholine ). Thereafter, however, is needed intubation and mechanical ventilation.