Abstract
Twenty-five cases of penetrating missile wounds involving the larynx and trachea are reported. Penetrating injuries of the anterior portion of the neck may have associated wounds of the larynx, pharynx, trachea, esophagus, major vessels, or spinal cord. Missiles crossing the midline of the neck are suspected of injuring the midline structures. Signs, symptoms, and diagnostic procedures are discussed. All neck wounds were debrided and explored to rule out deep structure injury. Surgical exploration of laryngotracheal injuries was directed toward open reduction and stabilization in position of function. The unfortunate complication of chronic stenosis of the larynx and trachea can be avoided in most penetrating missile wounds of the larynx and trachea.

This publication has 14 references indexed in Scilit: