Minibikes, a New Factor in Laryngotracheal Trauma

The growing popularity of minibikes among adolescents is evident by the number of advertisements and participants. Potentially fatal injuries to the neck were observed among several minibike enthusiasts. Typically, a minibike rider with his neck in extension unexpectedly collides with a hidden wire or cable. With only abrasions or contusions on his neck, the subject arrives at the emergency room in extreme airway distress. Attempts to manipulate his neck for mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or intubation produce greater air hunger. Only a low tracheotomy performed rapidly can save his life. The basic pathology in all cases encountered has been a laryngotracheal separation. Other associated injuries have been a fractured larynx, damaged recurrent laryngeal nerves, esophageal rupture and pneumothorax.