Abstract
The neck is a complex pathway for numerous critical structures and is defined by layers of fascial planes and spaces. Traumatic interruption of these planes can occur with injury to any of the mucosal structures within the head and neck, and is often seen as a consequence of pharyngeal injury. Here, the identification and management of two interesting and unique cases of penetrating oropharyngeal trauma are discussed: oropharyngeal trauma following abuse, and a self-inflicted pharyngeal wound with subsequent foreign body ingestion. We also review the literature regarding diagnosis, treatment, and management of traumatic pharyngeal perforation, and discuss possible complications.
Highlights
Traumatic interruption of these planes can occur with injury to any of the mucosal structures within the head and neck, and is often seen as a consequence of pharyngeal injury
The neck is a complex pathway for numerous critical structures whose anatomy can be difficult to fully understand
We describe two unique cases of penetrating oropharyngeal insult that led to traumatic interruption of the fascial planes of the neck, and review the literature regarding management of similar traumatic injuries
Summary
The neck is a complex pathway for numerous critical structures whose anatomy can be difficult to fully understand It is defined by multiple spaces with a variety of nomenclature systems that may further cloud the picture. The superficial layer separates the skin and subcutaneous tissue from the platysma and muscles of facial expression, while the deep layer is further divided into the superficial, middle, and deep layers These fascial layers establish planes and spaces within the neck, and separate multiple critical structures into these particular spaces. Interruption of these planes can allow inflammatory, neoplastic, and traumatic processes to spread with devastating consequences. We describe two unique cases of penetrating oropharyngeal insult that led to traumatic interruption of the fascial planes of the neck, and review the literature regarding management of similar traumatic injuries
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