The Role of the Otolaryngologist in Managing Suicidal Adolescents

From 1978 to 1987, 18 suicidal children were cared for by the otolaryngology service at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. The evaluation & treatment of these patients are reviewed, & factors resulting in these self-destructive acts discussed. Pertinent risk factors & warning signals that may enhance the otolaryngologists’s ability to make the diagnosis of attempted suicide & avert potential further harm are also presented.