Blunt laryngeal trauma secondary to sporting injuries. Issue 8 (9th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mendis, D; Anderson, J A
• Is Part Of: Journal of laryngology & otology. Volume 131:Issue 8(2017)
• Page Start: 728
• Page End: 735
• Publication Date: 2017-06-09
• Subjects: Sporting Injuries, -- Larynx, -- Trauma, -- Neck Injuries, -- Ice Hockey; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; 617.51
• DOI: 10.1017/S0022215117001220
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-2151

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Laryngeal injury after blunt trauma is uncommon, but can cause catastrophic airway obstruction and significant morbidity in voice and airway function. This paper aims to discuss a case series of sports-related blunt laryngeal trauma patients and describe the results of a thorough literature review. Method: Retrospective case-based analysis of laryngeal trauma referrals over six years to a tertiary laryngology centre. Results: Twenty-eight patients were identified; 13 (46 per cent) sustained sports-related trauma. Most were young males, presenting with dysphonia, some with airway compromise (62 per cent). Nine patients were diagnosed with a laryngeal fracture. Four patients were managed conservatively and nine underwent surgery. Post-treatment, the majority of patients achieved good voice outcomes (83 per cent) and all had normal airway function. Conclusion: Sports-related neck trauma can cause significant injury to the laryngeal framework and endolaryngeal soft tissues, and most cases require surgical intervention. Clinical presentation may be subtle; a systematic approach along with a high index of suspicion is essential, as early diagnosis and treatment have been reported to improve airway and voice outcome.