Water jet injury to larynx & hypopharynx - A rare case report

High pressure injuries to the oral cavity and oropharynx, like water jets, are surgical emergencies. Such injuries are commonly reported while cleaning clogged pipes. This is a report of an adult male with water jet injury to larynx and hypopharynx. Based on the results of flexible laryngoscopy and contrast-enhanced CT, this case was managed with suspension microlaryngoscopy and extensive debridement of the necrosed tissue under general anesthesia. Following this, the patient recovered with minimal residual hoarseness which eventually resolvedover six months.

Keywords: Water jet injuries, Oropharynx, Debridement, Hoarseness, Microlaryngoscopy.