# A Case of Displaced Cricoid Cartilage Fracture Successfully Treated With Non-Surgical Intervention

## TL;DR

A woman with a displaced cricoid cartilage fracture was successfully treated without surgery, showing that non-invasive care can work in some laryngeal trauma cases.

## Contribution

Demonstrates successful conservative treatment of a displaced cricoid fracture, challenging the need for invasive airway management.

## Key findings

- The patient was managed conservatively without tracheotomy or intubation.
- No complications occurred after four days of hospitalization and eight weeks of follow-up.
- Clinical examination findings were prioritized over imaging for treatment decisions.

## Abstract

Laryngeal trauma, particularly cricoid fractures, is rare but potentially life-threatening and often requires invasive airway management. However, factors contributing to successful conservative treatment remain unclear. We report the case of a 40-year-old woman diagnosed with a displaced cricoid cartilage fracture following a motorcycle accident. Despite the risk of upper airway obstruction due to a massive hematoma observed on fiberoptic laryngoscopy and a displaced cricoid cartilage fracture, the patient was successfully managed conservatively without tracheotomy or endotracheal intubation through frequent airway follow-up. The patient was discharged on day 4, and no complications occurred as of eight weeks after discharge. Conservative management may be a viable option for laryngeal injuries, particularly when clinical examination findings, indicating no airway urgency, are prioritized over imaging techniques such as computed tomography or laryngoscopy.