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Management of sword-swallower injuries

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 October 2010

A C Moberly ,
M H Fritsch  and
K M Mosier
A C Moberly*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
M H Fritsch
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
K M Mosier
Affiliation:
Department of Radiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Aaron C Moberly, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Indiana University Medical Center, 702 Barnhill Drive, Suite 0860, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA Fax:  + 1 317 274 0764 E-mail: acmoberl@iupui.edu
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Abstract

Objective:

To report an unusual case of hypopharyngeal perforation in a sword-swallower, with emphasis on management options.

Method:

Case report and review of the English language literature concerning sword-swallowing injuries to the hypopharynx and oesophagus.

Results:

A 29-year-old male sword-swallower suffered hypopharyngeal perforation during a performance. The patient received conservative management, with intensive care unit admission, infectious disease consultation, intravenous antibiotics, discontinuation of oral intake and close observation. He progressed well, resumed oral intake on hospital day six, and was discharged home on hospital day eight.

Conclusion:

Sword-swallowing is an unusual vocation which may lead to potentially devastating injuries. This case report and review of the literature illustrates the management options for such hypopharyngeal and oesophageal injuries.

Keywords

HypopharynxEsophageal PerforationPenetrating Wounds
Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 125 , Issue 2 , February 2011 , pp. 217 - 219
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2010

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References

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