Tracheal Transection From Gunshot Wound to the Neck

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Emergency Medicine
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Gunshot wounds to the neck can cause severe airway compromise.
• Prompt recognition and management of tracheobronchial injuries are crucial for patient survival.

Observation:

• A male patient sustained a gunshot wound superior to the left scapula, leading to respiratory distress and unresponsiveness.
• Paramedics performed an emergency cricothyroidotomy due to the patient's critical condition and low oxygen saturation (70%).

Findings:

• Surgical exploration revealed a complete transection of the mid trachea, which was successfully repaired.
• The patient developed acute respiratory distress syndrome postoperatively and required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of immediate identification of airway inadequacy in trauma patients.
• Effective management of complex tracheobronchial injuries requires a multidisciplinary approach and advanced life support techniques.