Selective expolratory protocol, a possibility in penetrating neck trauma

ABSTRACT

A four year [1993-96] prospective study of penetrating neck trauma was carried out at a surgical unit of a major teaching hospital. The study comprises of 48 patients. Age ranged from 16-72 years with a male to female ratio of 91. Thirty two [66.6%] merited early exploration while 16 [33.3%] were initially treated conservatively. Two of the later group underwent delayed exploration for infected hematoma. Firearm was the commonest mode of injury [43.7%] and cervical vasculature was the most commonly injured[25.4%]. Exsanguination and respiratory paralysis following cord damage were responsible for the mortality in 5 cases