We report the case of a 60-year-old cyclist with multiple facial lacerations. Reassessment of the mechanism of injury and presenting clinical features of a change in voice, odynophagia, and a graze in the anterior neck triggered concern. Fibreoptic nasoendoscopy showed a large haematoma of the supraglottic airway. Scans confirmed laryngeal injuries, which were managed conservatively as an inpatient without prophylactic tracheostomy. This report emphasises the importance of a high index of suspicion in patients with such facial injuries and other subtle signs, and highlights the need for careful clinical assessment.
Copyright © 2011 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.