Abstract
Assessment of aerodigestive injuries in penetrating neck trauma (PNT) is currently left up to the discretion of physicians which can result in a lot of confusion and unnecessary testing. This study was performed at a level 1 trauma center to assess the role of computed tomography arteriogram (CTA) in evaluating for aerodigestive injury in PNT. A total of 242 patients met criteria, with ages ranging from 7 to 86years. Computed tomography arteriogram, EGD, esophagography, and bronchoscopy were classified into positive, negative, and indeterminate results. Computed tomography arteriogram was then further analyzed for violation of the carotid sheath, investing, pretracheal, and deep cervical fascias. Results showed a high sensitivity and NPV (100%) of CTA in assessing aerodigestive injury. Computed tomography arteriogram is a reliable first-line screening tool for aerodigestive injury. EGD appears more useful than esophagography at identifying esophageal injuries. Esophagography and bronchoscopy should be reserved to aid in injury management decision-making rather than as screening studies.
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