A Penetrating Neck Injury Resulting in the Complete Transection of the Ipsilateral Common Carotid Artery, Delayed Contralateral Pneumothorax, and Occult Esophageal Injury: A Case Report With a Multidisciplinary Approach to Management

Abstract

A 29-year-old male presented with a zone one penetrating neck injury resulting in complete transection of the left carotid sheath and its contents. The proximal common carotid artery and internal jugular vein injuries were successfully managed with vessel ligation without adverse neurological sequelae. The patient also developed a contralateral pneumothorax, which was due to an occult through-and-through esophageal injury at the junction of the cervical and thoracic esophagus. The esophageal injury was successfully managed with surgical repair and wide drainage of the neck and right chest.