An elderly woman with increasing dyspnoea after a fall
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany. jens.pfeiffer@uniklinik-freiburg.de
BMJ Case Reports
|June 19, 2012
Summary
A retropharyngeal hematoma, a dangerous neck swelling, can occur in elderly patients after minor falls. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for airway protection.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Retropharyngeal hematomas can cause life-threatening airway obstruction.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are critical.
Observation:
- A 92-year-old woman presented with dyspnea and dysphagia after a fall.
- Imaging revealed an expanding retropharyngeal and prevertebral hematoma.
Findings:
- Surgical evacuation of the hematoma was performed via a lateral cervical approach.
- Bleeding originated from a minor injury to the anterior longitudinal ligament.
Implications:
- This case highlights that significant retropharyngeal hematomas can result from low-energy trauma in older adults.
- A high index of suspicion is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent airway compromise.
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