Superior vena cava perforation in a child from a lawnmower projectile

Lawnmowers are one of the most frequent causes of mutilating injuries to children. The majority of accidents are caused by negligence of the operator. Most injuries of this type are caused by direct contact with the spinning blade and, less frequently, by projectiles propelled by the blade. Such projectiles usually produce bruises, but can penetrate skin and soft tissues. This report presents a 6-year-old child who suffered a small, outwardly insignificant puncture wound of the chest from a lawnmower-propelled projectile who presented with fever and chest pain the following day. The diagnostic work up and treatment of this deceptively life-threatening wound are discussed.