What is the most common cause of upper airway obstruction in a trauma patient?

The most common cause of upper airway obstruction in a trauma patient is the tongue. In unconscious or semi-conscious patients, the muscles of the throat relax, which can lead to the tongue falling back and obstructing the airway. This is particularly significant in situations where a patient's level of consciousness is altered due to head trauma or intoxication. The tongue is a large muscle and can easily block the passage of air when the supporting muscle tone is lost.

In trauma scenarios, securing the airway is critical, and recognizing that the tongue may be the cause of obstruction allows first responders to take immediate action, such as positioning the patient or using airway adjuncts to restore patency. Understanding this fundamental aspect of airway management is crucial for effective trauma care.