Cut throat injury: a retrospective study of 26 cases

Cut throat injuries and associated deaths are common in our society. Majority succumb to their injuries. In this study, the hospital records of twenty six such cases (13 M & 13 F) were reviewed. Eleven victims were in their third decade. Eighteen cases came from poor socio-economic class. Eleven had suicidal, eleven homicidal and four accidental injuries. Familial troubles, psychiatric illness and poverty were the triggering factors in suicidal attempts. The motives of homicide included political conflict, sex related crimes, dacoity, familial, land related disputes, etc. All had their hypopharynx and/or larynx exposed. Tracheostomy was done in fifteen cases. All but two had uneventful recovery. One died in the hospital due to hemorrhage, shock and asphyxia from aspirated blood. It was observed that appropriate measures could save lives in vast majority.