[Retropharyngeal hematoma secondary to neck trauma--case report]

Abstract

Traumatic retropharyngeal hematoma is a rare but potentially fatal condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment. Obstruction of the airways may develop insidiously, several hours after the trauma. Thus hospital admission with close observation is essential. Intubation can be difficult due to distorted anatomy. Surgical airway management is often necessary. In most of cases the treatment is conservative, however large hematomas may require drainage. We present a case of 85-years old women with retropharyngeal hematoma after minor blunt trauma of the neck without cervical fracture. Since respiration was not impaired airway intervention was not necessary. After 5 days of close observation the patient was discharged in good condition. Further recovery was uneventful.