Pulmonary problems following multiple trauma in children.

Acute respiratory failure (ARF = hypoxemia and/or hypercapnia) is a frequent finding in the polytraumatized patient. Multiple injury is often accompanied by injury of the central nervous system, and the presence or absence of ARF may play a key role for survival and late morbidity. This paper reviews the incidence of pulmonary problems after severe head injury and the possible dysfunctions of the respiratory apparatus following single or multiple trauma. Diagnostic work-up in ARF includes consideration of the mechanisms of injury, clinical examination, determinations of arterial blood gases and chest radiographs which are all essential for the choice of an effective treatment. This frequently includes supportive treatment by continuous positive pressure ventilation.