Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2026
06:42
Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia
Published on: March 3, 2023
Management of sword-swallower injuries.
A C Moberly1, M H Fritsch, K M Mosier
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA. acmoberl@iupui.edu
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|October 27, 2010
Summary
Sword-swallowing can cause hypopharyngeal perforation. Conservative management, including intensive care and antibiotics, proved effective for a sword-swallower with this rare injury.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Sword-swallowing is a rare performance art with inherent risks of serious injury.
- Hypopharyngeal and esophageal perforations are potential complications of this practice.
Observation:
- A 29-year-old male sword-swallower presented with hypopharyngeal perforation after a performance.
- The injury occurred during a sword-swallowing act.
Findings:
- Conservative management was initiated, involving intensive care unit admission.
- Treatment included infectious disease consultation, intravenous antibiotics, and cessation of oral intake.
- The patient demonstrated a positive recovery, resuming oral intake on day six and discharge on day eight.
Implications:
- This case highlights that conservative management can be successful for hypopharyngeal perforation in sword-swallowers.
- Understanding management options is crucial for potentially devastating injuries from unusual vocations.
- Further literature review supports varied approaches to hypopharyngeal and esophageal trauma.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Esophageal perforations manifest in various clinical forms, influenced by factors such as the perforation's cause and location (cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal), the extent of contamination, and potential injury to adjacent mediastinal structures. The timing between the perforation occurrence and treatment initiation also affects the clinical presentation.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
01:26Flail Chest-II
Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
01:28Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
01:25Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care
Surgical management and nursing care are crucial in treating Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD). Here is an organized and enhanced overview of the surgical interventions and the associated nursing care for PUD:
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease
01:22Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...
01:22Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
Vigilant monitoring for aneurysm rupture is essential for patients undergoing aortic surgery.Preoperative Nursing ManagementContinuously monitor the patient for manifestations of aneurysm rupture, such as pallor, weakness, tachycardia, hypotension, abdominal, back, groin, or periumbilical pain, changes in consciousness, and a pulsating abdominal mass. Regularly assess the patient's peripheral pulses.Instruct the patient to consume a clear liquid diet the day before surgery and administer...