Citation

Mohd Hamdan MH, Saniasiaya J, Narayanan P. BMJ Case Rep. 2021; 14(7): e243756.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1136/bcr-2021-243756

PMID

34257127

PMCID

PMC8278900

Abstract

The hyoid bone fracture has traditionally been attributed to strangulation and hanging. Although rare, ensuing its vague presentation, hyoid bone fracture is oftentimes overlooked and missed, leading to delayed complications. Herein, we are reporting an overlooked hyoid bone fracture in a man who attempted suicide by strangulating himself, whereby Valsalva manoeuvre performed during bedside flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy revealed the fractured segment. As the patient was stable and asymptomatic, he was successfully managed conservatively. We would like to highlight the awareness of the Valsalva manoeuvre, which could elicit hyoid bone fracture as missing or overlooking the fracture may lead to devastating complications which may ensue, such as respiratory distress.

Language: en

Keywords

Humans; Male; trauma; emergency medicine; Neck Injuries; Fractures, Bone; Hyoid Bone; Pharynx; ear; nose and throat/otolaryngology; Valsalva Maneuver