Penetrating Neck Trauma with Bilateral Pneumothorax and Pneumomediastinum: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Penetrating neck trauma presents a complex and challenging scenario in clinical practice. We present the case report of a 31-year-old male who suffered a neck injury due to a small iron rod piercing the anterior aspect of the neck in a road traffic accident. The patient presented with hoarseness of voice and air bubbling from the neck wound when speaking. Diagnostic assessments, including imaging, revealed extensive subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum. Positive response was observed in the patient with symptomatic treatment and chest tube insertion. This case highlights the rarity and intricacies of traumatic neck injuries, emphasizing the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment serving as a valuable contribution to the understanding and management of traumatic neck injuries resulting in pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax.

Keywords

• neck trauma
• penetrating
• pneumomediastinum
• pneumothorax