Abnormal Presentation of a Plastic Foreign Body in The Retropharyngeal Space.

Abstract

We present a case of a plastic foreign body that was initially not identified despite preliminary radiographs. Penetrating foreign bodies located in the retropharyngeal space carry a high risk of mortality due to their proximity to the carotid sheath. Foreign bodies left in situ may lead to a number of complications notably infection or fistulae. To limit the risks associated with these injuries timely diagnosis with appropriate imaging is vital. Unfortunately, plastic foreign bodies can be difficult to visualize on standard imaging modalities which can complicate diagnosis.