Gunshot wounds to the neck

Gunshot wounds to the neck are diagnostically and therapeutically challengi ng cases. We report such a case with vascular and neurologic injuries and d escribe the therapeutic options. Initial treatment is aimed at hemodynamic stabilization. Zone II neck injuries are managed selectively, and physical examination alone may dictate emergency surgical exploration. Spinal cord i njury must be suspected and assessed clinically, as well as by computed tom ography and angiography. Deteriorating or stable neurologic status and cord compression by bullet or bone fragments require surgical decompression. Im proving neurologic status may be managed conservatively. In gunshot wounds to the neck, treatment should be individualized and multidisciplinary.