Glottic Obstruction from Fibroepithelial Polyp.

BACKGROUND Fibroepithelial polyps are benign lesions of mesodermal origin, which have been reported in the head and neck area. The aim of this study is to describe the management of an oropharyngeal fibroepithelial polyp causing stridor. CASE REPORT A 39-year-old male presented with 24 hours of stridor and dysphagia. Flexible laryngoscopy revealed a pedunculated sessile polyp on the posterior oropharynx. The mass was excised using bipolar diathermy and histopathology revealed a fibroepithelial polyp. The differential diagnoses for stridor are extensive. Although uncommon, a fibroepithelial polyp should be considered. CONCLUSIONS We present a rare case of a fibroepithelial polyp causing stridor and imminent airway obstruction. We recommend the use of SponTaneous Respiration using IntraVEnous anaesthesia and High-flow nasal oxygen (STRIVE Hi) for general anaesthesia and resection of pharyngeal polyps.

A Case of Pneumomediastinum Due to Blunt Neck Trauma in a 23-Year-Old Male Rugby Player.

BACKGROUND Pneumomediastinum is an uncommon clinical condition that usually occurs spontaneously, or is caused by blunt thoracic or abdominal trauma. This report is of a rare case of pneumomediastinum caused by blunt neck trauma in an adult and describes the clinical and radiological features and the principles of clinical management. CASE REPORT A 23-year-old man presented with increased neck swelling, dysphonia and pain on swallowing (odynophagia) after blunt neck trauma during a rugby game. Chest X-ray and computed tomography (CT) showed features that were consistent with pneumomediastinum, including extensive subcutaneous emphysema. The patient was intubated and monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) and managed with early stabilization of the airway and with conservative methods. He had no complications on clinical follow-up following hospital discharge. CONCLUSIONS Although pneumomediastinum is an uncommon condition, the complications can be fatal. This case highlights the importance of thoroughly investigating cases of subcutaneous emphysema and the importance of early stabilization of the airway.