A Rare Isolated Hyoid Bone Fracture: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) Vol. 15; no. 4; p. e37165
• Main Authors: Alwasiyah, Bashair M, Aljehani, Zuhair H, Farag, Nouran H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Cureus Inc 05-04-2023; Cureus
• Subjects: Airway management; Analgesics; Asymptomatic; Cartilage; Case reports; Dysphagia; Edema; Emergency Medicine; Fractures; Injuries; Larynx; Martial arts; Medical imaging; Neck pain; Ostomy; Otolaryngology; Patients; Suicides & suicide attempts; Thyroid gland; Trauma; Vital signs; hyoid bone fracture; airway compromise; head and neck trauma; blunt trauma; maxillofacial
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.37165

Isolated hyoid bone fractures are rare and account for a small percentage of all head and neck fractures. The anatomic location of the hyoid bone, which is between the jaw and the cervical spine, is its most essential protective mechanism. In addition to the anatomic protection provided by the mandible, the fusion of the hyoid's bone pieces and the bone's mobile capacity in all directions are other protective factors contributing to the rarity of these fractures. However, this defense mechanism can get compromised upon exposure to blunt traumas and hyperextension injuries. Injury to the neck by blunt trauma can induce fast deterioration, and a missed or delayed diagnosis can result in morbidity and fatality. The importance of early diagnosis and suggested management options are further discussed. We herein report an unusual case of an isolated hyoid bone fracture in a 26-year-old man who was hit by a car while crossing the street. The patient was otherwise asymptomatic and vitally stable so he was managed successfully by conservative management only.