Retropharyngeal hematoma secondary to minor blunt head and neck trauma

Retropharyngeal hematomas are relatively rare. They are clinically important because of the close proximity of the retropharyngeal space to the upper airway. Any swelling in the space may cause the posterior pharyngeal wall to bulge anteriorly into the airway and cause airway obstruction. Management starts with securing and maintaining the patient's airway. Diagnosis rests upon clinical examination and radiographic studies. Treatment depends upon the size of the hematoma as well as the clinical course of the patient. Smaller hematomas may be observed. Larger hematomas and those that fail to reabsorb should undergo drainage. A case of retropharyngeal hematoma following minor blunt head and neck trauma is presented. We review the literature and present management and treatment principles for this group of patients.