EVALUATION OF PATIENT PROFILES IN OTOLARYNGOLOGY EMERGENCY ROOMS IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS

Abstract

The Otolaryngology Emergency Room (ORL-ER) is the primary setting for the management of acute conditions that, although often benign, encompass emergencies that threaten the airway, sensory function, or the patient's life. This scientific article aims to review and categorize the main complications and emergencies treated in the otolaryngology emergency setting, addressing the pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, and reference therapeutic protocols. Emergencies are structured into critical categories: airway compromise (laryngitis, epiglottitis), deep neck infections, severe hemorrhages (refractory epistaxis), and acute sensory losses (sudden deafness, acute peripheral vertigo). A thorough understanding of these conditions is fundamental to mitigating morbidity and mortality in the hospital setting.