The extraordinary case of a welder: retrieval of foreign bodies via transcervical neck exploration

Abstract

Penetrating foreign bodies in the neck can be challenging to locate, especially given the complex anatomy of neck and edematous tissue planes following injury. These foreign entities require prompt surgical exploration for their removal because of risk of migration. Retrieval of foreign bodies relies upon their size and surrounding anatomical tissues. We are reporting an uncommon instance in which an iron chip accidentally penetrated patient's neck, producing acute hoarseness of voice and agony. The foreign body was removed via transcervical neck exploration.