Penetrating multiple fragment injury to the head and neck is common during wartime. Computed tomography angiography is useful in the delayed evaluation of stable patients, but retained fragments produce suboptimal imaging in the zone of injury. Arteriography remains the imaging study of choice to evaluate for cervical vascular trauma, and its use should be liberalized for combat injuries. Stable injuries may not require immediate neck exploration; however, the high prevalence of occult injuries discovered in this review underscores the need for a complete re-evaluation upon return to the United States.

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Although acute appendicitis is common, reported cases after orthotopic liver transplant are rare. A 29-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with right lower-quadrant pain and mild leukocytosis 2 years after having a liver transplant. A computed tomograph y scan revealed an inflamed appendix. On operation, an injected appendix was noted, and she underwent an uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy. Histology confirmed the diagnosis and her postoperative course was unremarkable. Owing to the rarity of these cases and paucity of knowledge on management, a high index of suspicion and immediate intervention are required to prevent major complications. This case is the first successful laparoscopic appendectomy after liver transplant ever reported.