Pharyngeal trauma: Two unique case reports

The neck is a complex pathway for numerous critical structures and is defined by layers of fascial planes and spaces. Traumatic interruption of these planes can occur with injury to any of the mucosal structures within the head and neck, and is often seen as a con-sequence of pharyngeal injury. Here, the identifica-tion and management of two interesting and unique cases of penetrating oropharyngeal trauma are dis-cussed: oropharyngeal trauma following abuse, and a self-inflicted pharyngeal wound with subsequent for-eign body ingestion. We also review the literature re-garding diagnosis, treatment, and management of traumatic pharyngeal perforation, and discuss possi-ble complications