Management of severe cut throat injury in Zaria, Nigeria

Abstract

Cut throat injury is a potentially life threatening emergency often encountered by ear, nose, and throat surgeons. In recent years, there has been increasing incidence of violence as well as severe injuries from armed robbers and insurgents using sharp knives in Northern Nigeria. The use of knives as a weapon for armed robbery when applied to the neck often results in fatal consequences because of the potential for injury to vital structures. Early appropriate interventions often reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with cut throat injuries. We present a report of a successfully managed case of severe cut throat with complete transection of the larynx and muscles of the posterior neck resulting in near decapitation inflicted using a sharp knife during a robbery incident. Securing airway in the early management of patient with cut throat injury is very important. There is a need for patient and meticulous repair of damaged structures. This may reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with such cases.