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Esophageal laceration from penetrating trauma

Case contributed by RMH Core Conditions
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Stab wound to neck and chest

Patient Data

Age: 25 years
Gender: Female

There is gas in the retropharyngeal, prevertebral and perivisceral space extending inferiorly to base of neck and superior mediastinum anteriorly with scattered locules of gas at the right base of tongue and anterior strap muscles. Probable right internal laryngocoele. Contour irregularity of the supraglottic larynx with surrounding locules of gas. Thin curvilinear lucency posterior to the upper intrathoracic esophagus. Findings suspicious esophageal injury.

GG Swallow performed next day

Fluoroscopy

Gastrograffin is seen to pass posteriorly from the hypopharynx into the prevertebral space at a level just inferior to the hyoid bone. The prevertebral space is considerably distended by gas. 

Case Discussion

Injuries sustained from penetrating trauma:

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