S11.12

Clinical Causes: Traumatic injuries from accidents such as car crashes or falls Penetrating injuries from sharp objects like knives or glass Injuries occurring during surgical procedures or medical interventions Sports-related injuries involving direct blows or falls Penetrating wounds from gunshots or other projectiles

Key Symptoms: Pain or tenderness in the front of the neck Swelling or a visible mass in the neck area Difficulty swallowing or discomfort while swallowing Trouble speaking or a hoarse voice Bleeding or bruising around the neck Possible bleeding from the wound and signs of shock in severe cases Discoloration and swelling that may develop over time Signs of nerve involvement such as numbness or weakness in the neck or face

Diagnosis Path: Physical Examination: Inspection of the neck for visible wounds, swelling, or deformities Imaging Tests: Ultrasound imaging can help identify the presence of foreign objects, assess injury extent, and evaluate nearby blood vessels and structures X-rays: Useful to locate radiopaque foreign bodies such as metal or glass Computed Tomography (CT) scan: Provides detailed images of the neck, helping evaluate the injury’s extent and foreign body location Laboratory Tests: Blood work to assess for bleeding, infection, or other complications

Treatment Protocols: Initial stabilization: Ensuring the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation are maintained Control of bleeding: Applying pressure and using dressings to reduce bleeding Imaging assessments: To locate foreign body and evaluate injury severity Surgical removal: Carefully extracting the foreign object and repairing tissue damage Wound care: Cleaning and suturing the wound to promote healing and prevent infection Antibiotics: To prevent or treat bacterial infections Monitoring: Post-operative observation for potential complications such as bleeding, infection, or nerve damage