Mechanisms of Penetrating Trauma to the Neck

A Penetrating Neck Injury Resulting in the Complete Transection of the Ipsilateral Common Carotid Artery, Delayed Contralateral Pneumothorax, and Occult Esophageal Injury: A Case Report With a Multidisciplinary Approach to Management

“…The trajectory of high-energy injuries is notorious for its unpredictability. However, even a blade can have unexpected injuries, as discussed by Gupta et al [ 1 ]. In regards to this case, the entry point was the left neck, with the knife traversing through and through the esophagus before entering into the right chest.…”

“…Penetrating trauma frequently has unpredictable trajectories, resulting in injuries distant from the original point of entry. This concept holds especially true with high-velocity ballistic injuries; however, it is not always as evident with low-velocity injuries such as knife wounds [ 1 ]. Regardless of the mechanism, continuous thorough reevaluation of trauma patients is paramount in identifying occult injuries not apparent on initial surveys and imaging.…”