An Unusual Anterior Neck Injury [Cut Throat]: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction -The Neck is prone to injuries that are life threatening due to the presence of vital structures that lie within the neck. Cut throat injuries are located on the anterior neck classically, with dangers to the aero digestive tract and the vascular structures. Case Presentation-A 40 year old farmer presented with injuries on the lateral sides of the neck with an island of normal tissue anteriorly two days after the incidence from a rural hospital, fig 1. Examination revealed an anaemic, dehydrated young man that was not in any respiratory distress. There was complete avulsion of the epiglottis at the base; and the eyes were also plucked. Patient had blood transfusion, tracheostomy, fig 2 and subsequent repair with favourable outcome. Conclusion-Cut throat injuries are relatively uncommon in our environment, but on the increase due to violence in the society (insurgency, ritual killings, armed robbery etc).Prompt identification and referral to the specialist for proper management will reduce morbidity and mortality.