Photo: Phu Yen General Hospital
A male metalworker in Ho Chi Minh City was injured while sawing metal. The saw blade unexpectedly broke, and a piece of metal flew out and pierced his neck.
Following the accident, the patient received first aid at a medical facility near their workplace. The external wounds subsequently healed, but the dry cough and pain when swallowing persisted.
Approximately 20 days after the accident, the patient visited Phu Yen General Hospital ( Dak Lak ) for examination. Through examination and diagnostic imaging, doctors discovered a metallic foreign object remaining in the neck area, with a path xuyên through the trachea.
According to doctors, penetrating neck injuries can damage the airways, esophagus, major blood vessels, and nerve structures. Residual foreign bodies also pose a risk of complications if not detected and treated promptly.
After being advised about their condition and the risk of complications, the patient agreed to surgery. The doctors safely removed the foreign object. Post-surgery, the patient's condition stabilized and they continued to be monitored.
This case demonstrates that the extent of internal damage doesn't always correspond to the appearance of external wounds. In particular, metal fragments from cutting machines, grinders, and hacksaws can fly at high speeds and cause deep tissue injuries.
Following a neck injury, if symptoms such as pain when swallowing, coughing, shortness of breath, hoarseness, neck pain, or a feeling of obstruction when swallowing occur, the patient should seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation, even if the external wound is small or has healed.
When working with machinery and mechanical tools, full personal protective equipment must be used. If an injury occurs due to a penetrating foreign object, do not be complacent or rely solely on the condition of the skin wound.
Source: https://vtv.vn/di-vat-kim-loai-xuyen-thung-khi-quan-sau-tai-nan-lao-dong-100261002090809916.htm
