Retrospective review reveals a 56% negative exploration rate under routine surgery for penetrating neck injuries, suggesting selective exploration based on overt clinical signs.
Seventy-five patients with penetrating neck injuries were reviewed. A policy of routine neck exploration for all wounds violating the platysma resulted in a 56% negative exploration rate. All patients with serious injuries had overt clinical signs preoperatively. A policy of selective exploration is discussed.
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Elerding et al. (1980) studied this question.
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