Traumatic Retropharyngeal Hematoma of Delayed Onset in an Anticoagulated Patient.
10.4055/jkoa.2010.45.5.404
- Author:
Kyung Jin SONG
1
;
Ji Hun SONG
;
Young Jin LIM
;
Ul Oh JEUNG
;
Ki Soo KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, Korea.
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
retropharyngeal hematoma;
anticoagulation;
wafarin
- MeSH:
Hematoma;
Hoarseness;
Humans;
Middle Aged;
Pharyngitis;
Spine;
Warfarin
- From:The Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association
2010;45(5):404-407
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
The development of a retropharyngeal hematoma following a trivial blunt trauma is a rare occurrence. A lateral c-spine X-ray or a cervical CT image that shows marked widening of the prevertebral space is sufficient evidence for the clinical diagnosis of retropharyngeal hematoma. When this complication does occur, it can become life-threatening if the airway is compromised. But the diagnosis is obscure and initially veiled in complaints of sore throat or hoarseness, suggesting infection. Thorough investigation of such complaints is necessary especially in patients receiving anticoagulation therapy. We now report a case of retropharyngeal hematoma that occurred as a delayed-onset consequence of a trivial blunt trauma with no evidence of a bony cervical spine injury. It occurred in a 52-year-old man who had been taking warfarin. We also reviewed the literature.
