External laryngeal trauma.

Compared to internal laryngeal trauma caused by endolaryngeal procedures, trauma to the larynx caused by external forces is relatively rare. It has been incidence of 1 in every 22,900 emergency room visits. Rapid evaluation and protection of the airway are critical. A history of a cervical trauma with signs of hoarseness, difficulty breathing and pain should always alert the emergency physician to the possibility of laryngeal injury.