A Case Report of a Soldier with Combined Injuries to the Trachea and Esophagus After Blunt Neck Trauma Successfully Treated Through an Emergency Operation

Abstract

Background: Survival following blunt neck trauma that results in a combination of tracheal plus esophageal injury is unusual. Here we describe a case of young soldier who suffered combined injuries to the trachea and esophagus after a secondary injury involving a metal bar. Case Presentation: A 21 years old soldier who suffered from a daily training injury complained of neck ecchymosis with subcutaneous emphysema. The chest CT revealed that paratracheal adipose tissue had moved into the trachea and with massive pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema. We made a suspected diagnosis of tracheal injury because of the pneumomediastinum. Subsequently, the tracheoscopy revealed a 2-3 cm linear tear of the proximal trachea, with adipose tissue extending into the trachea. Twelve hours after the accident, an emergency surgery was performed. Combined injuries of the trachea plus esophagus were found by accident during the operation. The trachea as well as esophagus was repaired with simple interrupted silk sutures. The patient showed good postoperative recovery and was discharged with no complications.Conclusion: Combined blunt traumatic injuries to the laryngotrachea as well as esophagus are rare. Although uncommon and a diagnostic and management challenge, the illustrated case resulted in excellent outcome.