# Multidisciplinary Rescue Airway Management in a Self-Inflicted Penetrating Neck Injury: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A rare case of a self-inflicted neck injury requiring emergency airway management and multidisciplinary care is reported.

## Contribution

The case highlights adaptable airway strategies and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in managing traumatic airway injuries.

## Key findings

- Emergency tracheal intubation through a cervical wound was performed in a non-tertiary hospital.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration led to successful surgical repair and a favorable patient outcome.
- The case emphasizes the need for flexible approaches in managing complex traumatic airway disruptions.

## Abstract

Self-inflicted penetrating neck injury is a rare but highly lethal form of suicide attempt, often resulting in complex injuries to the upper airway and digestive tract. We report a case of a man in his 50s presenting with a complete supraglottic laryngeal and partial pharyngeal transection due to self-inflicted stab wounds. The initial assessment took place in a non-tertiary hospital, and an emergency airway access was achieved via tracheal intubation through the open cervical wound, followed by transfer to a level I trauma center and urgent surgical repair. A multidisciplinary team involving anesthesiology, intensive care, general surgery, and otorhinolaryngology ensured a favorable outcome. This case highlights the need for adaptable airway strategies and multidisciplinary collaboration in the management of traumatic airway disruption.