Hypopharyngeal perforation caused by blunt trauma in buffalo attack

Abstract

A male in his 50s arrived by ambulance at a regional Australian hospital after being pinned by a buffalo against a fence by the chest and abdomen. Primary and secondary surveys identified an open fibula fracture and superficial abrasions. CT trauma series identified retropharyngeal free gas extending to the right carotid sheath. Flexible nasoendoscopy revealed a normal upper airway and no site of perforation. Oesophagoscopy and gastroscopy were completed to evaluate for a site of free gas leakage. A hypopharyngeal tear was identified 15 cm from the incisors at the cricopharyngeal sphincter. A gastrograffin swallow was completed which showed no leak. The decision was made to manage the patient conservatively with intravenous dexamethasone and intravenous ceftriaxone/metronidazole for antibiotic prophylaxis. The patient had his diet gradually upgraded and was discharged home 4 days later with oral amoxicillin and clavulanic acid.