• If partially avulsed:
− Realign the ear into position.
Gently bandage with padding that has been slightly moistened with normal saline
• If completely avulsed:
− Wrap it in saline-moistened gauze.
− Place in plastic bag and place bag on ice
• If blood or CSF drainage is noted:
− Apply a loose dressing over the ear.
− Assess for basilar skull fracture.
• Do not remove an impaled object.
− Stabilize the object.
− Cover the ear to prevent movement and minimize contamination.
Pathophysiology of Oral and Dental Injuries
• Soft-tissue injuries
− Place the responsive patient with severe oral bleeding leaning forward.
Impaled objects can result in profuse bleeding
• Dental injuries
− May be associated with mechanisms that cause severe maxillofacial trauma
Always assess the mouth following facial injury
Assessment and Management of Oral and Dental Injuries
• Ensure adequate breathing.
− Suction the oropharynx as needed.
− Remove fractured tooth fragments.
− Apply spinal motion restriction precautions as dictated by the MOI.
• Impaled objects should be stabilized.
− Unless they interfere with airway
• To replant an avulsed tooth:
− Place the tooth in its socket.
Hold it in place with or have patient bite down.