RESPIRATORY DYSFUNCTION ASSOCIATED WITH TRAUMATIC INJURY TO THE CENTRAL-NERVOUS-SYSTEM

A spectrum of pulmonary abnormalities may occur as a result of head tr auma or spinal cord injury. Complications include the early appearance of arterial hypoxemia and abnormal breathing patterns, alterations in rib cage motion and pulmonary function, changes in the amount and qua lity of bronchial secretions, the development of atelectasis and bacte rial pneumonia, neurogenic pulmonary edema, and a predisposition to ve nous thromboembolic disease. Vigorous pulmonary hygiene and successful weaning from mechanical ventilation have a major impact on long-term survival.