[Closed rupture of the cervical trachea].

Two patients with closed rupture of the cervical trachea secondary to blunt trauma, one secondary to neck injury and the other secondary to thoracic injury, were analysed with those reported else where (58). Signs and symptoms included subcutaneous emphysema, respiratory distress, hoarseness/dysphonia, dysphagia, hemoptysis and so on. We conclude that: (1) the diagnosis of blunt trauma of the cervical trachea requires a high index of suspicion, since this injury can easily be overlooked; (2) tracheostomy is the best means of airway control; (3) good long-term airway quality is best obtained by immediate repair of injuries.