ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Penetrating neck injuries result from missiles and stab wounds. A gas pistol is a non-lethal weapon for self-defence. CASE REPORT: We present a case where the use of a modified gun led to multiple injuries in a single shot. Four projectiles were embedded in the neck, one in the larynx and three in the cervical spine. The first was removed via a combined external and endoscopic approach, while the rest were put on follow-up. CONCLUSION: The reported case shows that damage from modified gas pistols, although rarely life threatening, may cause long term discomfort and diminished quality of life.
ABSTRACT
We present a case of an 83-year-old male without previous history who presented with a cervical hematoma, initially misdiagnosed as a neck phlegmona. In the course of the diagnostic workup, the hematoma enlarged, thereby causing respiratory distress because of upper airway compromise. The endotracheal intubation was lifesaving. Later, contrast enhanced computed tomography revealed hematoma in the region of the left common carotid artery. Emergency surgery evacuated the hematoma and repaired a slit-like defect of the left common carotid 2 cm before bifurcation. The patient was discharged on the seventh postoperative day in good condition. We discuss four aspects of the case, namely, the rarity of the condition and the variety of causes, the diagnostic and treatment strategy, the uncertain reasons for spontaneous ruptures of the carotid, and the operative techniques for hematoma evacuation and definitive hemostasis. The optimal strategy for cases of cervical hematoma is the following: intubation, diagnosis, and surgery.