Surgical management of transcervical gunshot injury presented with CSF leak and progressive left upper extremity paresis: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Penetrating neck trauma (PNT) due to gunshot injuries is one of the challenging conditions with the potential for both major morbidities and mortality. Research Question: There are major concerns in approach to patients with spinal gunshot injury. Surgery indications, methods of surgery and management of CSF leak are main concerns in these patients. Methods and Materials: An 11-years-old boy was referred to our center with a single gunshot wound to the left side of the posterior cervical region since two days ago with cerebrospinal fluid leakage and left arm weakness. Results: The patient underwent surgery, and the pellet was removed. His left arm weakness fully recovered after the operation. No new symptoms developed during 1 year follow up. Conclusion: Timely surgery could dramatically improve outcomes in PNT patients with mild symptoms and prevent worsening neurological defects.