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Updated: Jun 16, 2026

In Vivo Evaluation of the Mechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of the Rat Tongue
Published on: July 6, 2017
A lucky catch: Fishhook injury of the tongue
Karen A Eley1, Daljit K Dhariwal
1Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK.
Abstract:
Fishhook injuries, particularly those involving the upper limbs, are frequently encountered in recreational and commercial fishing settings. The oral cavity is rarely a site for such injury. We present the case of a 13-month-old male child who sustained a fishhook injury to the tongue whilst 'playing' with an unused fishhook at home. In this case there was minimal swelling, and the fishhook could be uneventfully removed under general anesthesia. Penetrating injuries to the tongue carry the risk of swelling and hematoma formation, which may result in airway compromise. These injuries therfore call for early intervention.
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