Penetrating Neck Trauma: a Review

Purpose of ReviewThis review focuses on the management of penetrating neck trauma and its evolution over the last several decades.Recent FindingsOur increased experience with high-resolution computed tomography has changed the management of penetrating neck trauma from an anatomically zone-based approach to a no zone approach. Physical signs and symptoms of vascular, airway, and digestive track injuries still guide the basis of further radiographic and surgical workup. With the advancement and greater availability of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) technology, assessment of injuries has become easier and far more accurate. The hemodynamically stable patient may now be approached in a no-zone manner, and in certain cases managed safely with conservative measures.SummaryWartime experience and improved technology played major roles in the evolution of penetrating neck injury management. Aggressive surgical exploration had given way to selective management based on anatomical neck zones, to most currently a no zone approach.