# Penetrative Laryngeal Cartilage Fracture: A Case Report

## TL;DR

This case report describes a rare laryngeal cartilage fracture from a gunshot wound and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for optimal recovery.

## Contribution

The paper presents a unique case of a penetrative laryngeal cartilage fracture and highlights effective management strategies for such injuries.

## Key findings

- Early surgical repair is essential for optimal long-term voice and swallow outcomes in laryngeal fractures.
- Prompt airway intervention and anatomic reconstruction led to excellent functional recovery in the patient.
- Penetrative laryngeal trauma requires rapid recognition to prevent life-threatening complications.

## Abstract

Laryngeal fractures are rare but potentially life-threatening. Because the larynx plays a central role in airway patency, phonation, and airway protection, disruption of its structural integrity can result in severe morbidity. Early diagnosis is critical; however, due to the rarity of this injury and the wide spectrum of clinical presentation, laryngeal trauma is frequently underrecognized. When identified, management must prioritize airway stabilization, followed by anatomic reconstruction to optimize long-term voice and swallow outcomes. Laryngeal fractures from penetrating trauma demand rapid recognition and decisive airway management to prevent life-threatening compromise. Early surgical repair remains essential for optimizing long-term function. We successfully repaired a 60-year-old patient who presented to the emergency department with a gunshot wound to the laryngeal cartilage with anterior commissure disruption. The excellent functional recovery of the patient highlights the importance of early recognition, prompt airway intervention, and precise anatomic reconstruction, particularly in cases involving the anterior commissure.