Traumatic vocal fold haemorrhage without airway compromise: a rare presentation of blunt laryngeal injury

Laryngotracheal trauma, although rare, can pose a significant threat to life. It may present subtly as illustrated by this case. It is crucial to maintain a high level of suspicion for signs indicative of laryngotracheal injury following blunt neck trauma. We present the case of a male in his 40s who presented following a fall with direct anterior neck impact against a metal railing. He reported anterior neck pain, dysphonia and dysphagia. CT imaging revealed a left supraglottic swelling compressing the trachea. Flexible nasal endoscopy uncovered a left supraglottic haematoma and vocal fold haemorrhage. Given the potential for delayed airway compromise, the patient was admitted for close monitoring. Subsequent endoscopies demonstrated a stable airway and progressive reduction in haematoma size, and he was safely discharged without surgical intervention.