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Thyroid gland hematoma after blunt cervical trauma
M Blaivas1, D B Hom, J G Younger
1Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|August 19, 1999
Summary
Thyroid hematoma, a rare complication of blunt trauma, can cause airway obstruction. This case highlights a delayed presentation of thyroid hematoma following a motor vehicle accident, successfully managed non-surgically.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Thyroid hematoma is an uncommon yet critical complication following blunt neck trauma.
- It can lead to significant airway compromise, necessitating prompt diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old female presented with orthopnea, dysphagia, and tracheal deviation over 24 hours post-low-energy motor vehicle accident.
- Symptoms indicated potential airway obstruction secondary to a thyroid hematoma.
Findings:
- Diagnostic workup including fiberoptic laryngoscopy, cervical CT, and angiography confirmed a thyroid gland hematoma.
- The patient's airway was successfully managed without invasive procedures.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering thyroid hematoma in patients with delayed airway symptoms after blunt neck trauma.
- Conservative management and surgical intervention (thyroidectomy) can lead to favorable outcomes.