Unusual fishing harpoon injury of the maxillofacial region in a child

Abstract

Injuries by fishing harpoon are extremely rare. Despite the similarities to other penetrating injuries normally caused by gunshot and stab wounds, harpoon injuries feature hook-type tips pointing to the opposite direction to that of removal, thus rendering the surgery more complex. The authors report on a case of a child who sustained an injury caused by two-piece fragments of a fishing harpoon to the right temporal and orbital regions. The diagnosis process is discussed and a suggestion is presented as to treatment principles. The authors support the use of small incisions that are just small enough to clear the tissues surrounding the object and allow for the removal of said object from the outside to the inside and counter indicate any attempt to pull the object. Such approach was used in this case with a satisfactory result and minimum sequels.