J Trauma
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Review Case Reports
Isolated hyoid bone fracture: a case report and review of the literature.
Isolated hyoid bone fractures secondary to trauma other than strangulation are rare and have few, if any, complications. We report a case of an isolated hyoid bone fracture that resulted in sudden and severe upper airway compromise. Diagnosis of these fractures is difficult and usually can be made only with a strong degree of suspicion. Patients who suffer neck injuries in whom a hyoid fracture is diagnosed or strongly suspected should be observed for 48 to 72 hours, considered for endoscopy, and treated as warranted.