Blunt, Penetrating and Strangulating; Suicidal, Homicidal, Accidental and Sport-Related Neck Injuries: a Case Series and Literature Review.

Abstract

Introduction: Presentation of neck injuries in ER can be with or without neurological deficit. Trauma victims with multiple injuries should be examined for neck injuries as these injuries are potentially life threatening. Further neck movement should be restricted by applying the cervical collar until further radiological investigations rule out the spine injury. Early identification and treatment of neck injuries whether spine, vascular, or muscular injury improve the morbidity and mortality in polytrauma patients.

Case presentation: In a series of case presentations of neck injuries through various modes, the first case of neck injury was related to road traffic accident presented with neck pain and paraplegia. In the second case, neck injury was due to suicidal hanging presented with ligature mark over the neck. Third case was related to Indian traditional sport-related neck injury presented with severe neck pain stiffness. In the fourth case, neck injury was due to gunshot and presented with bullet entry wound and quadriparesis.

Conclusion: Neck injury in the absence of associated injuries is rarely seen after blunt and penetrating trauma, but can result in devastating outcomes if left unrecognized. A high index of suspicion and early intervention are critical.