Background: We retrospectively reviewed the presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of patients with\r\nclosed injury of the cervical trachea. We evaluated factors that improve diagnosis and treatment, reduce mortality,\r\nand avoid tracheal stenosis.\r\nMethods: We reviewed the clinical data of 17 patients with closed injury of the cervical trachea. All patients\r\nunderwent CT scanning or endoscopy, tracheal exploration, low tracheotomy, and tracheal repair.\r\nResults: In 12 patients, breathing, phonation, and swallowing functions had returned to normal at 2 weeks. In three\r\npatients, breathing and swallowing functions had recovered at 2 weeks, but hoarseness continued. In two patients,\r\ntracheal stenosis prevented extubation and required further surgery; in these patients breathing and swallowing\r\nfunctions had recovered at 6 months.\r\nConclusions: Closed injury of the cervical trachea may cause airway obstruction and is potentially life-threatening.\r\nEarly diagnosis and repair to restore structure and function are important to ensure survival and avoid tracheal\r\nstenosis.
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