Thyroid rupture secondary to blunt neck trauma

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Endocrinology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Thyroid gland rupture is an infrequent consequence of blunt neck trauma.
• Pre-existing goiter is often associated with thyroid injury, but this case involved a patient without prior thyroid disease.

Observation:

• A patient involved in a motor vehicle accident presented with acute neck pain, swelling, dysphagia, and hoarseness.
• Computed tomography revealed lacerations in the right thyroid lobe and isthmus, indicating slow, active bleeding.
• Surgical exploration confirmed a ruptured right thyroid lobe with active venous hemorrhage.

Findings:

• The patient underwent a right hemithyroidectomy to address the thyroid rupture and control bleeding.
• Post-operative recovery was uneventful, with no complications reported.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering thyroid rupture in patients with blunt neck trauma, even without pre-existing goiter.
• Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing thyroid gland trauma and ensuring favorable patient outcomes.