An unusual faciocerebellar arrow injury: successful surgical removal in a peasant Nigerian: a case report

Niger Postgrad Med J. 2006 Dec;13(4):370-2.

Abstract

Introduction: Reports of penetrating injuries of the cranium have been mainly craniocerebral or faciocerebral, craniocerebellar projectiles are few.

Case: We present a case of a 23 year old Nigerian with a craniofacial penetrating injury by a hunting arrow. The trajectory of the arrow through the facial skeleton across the craniocervical junction into the posterior fossa makes this unique in the literature. Successful operative retrieval by a joint team of neurosurgeons and otorhinolaryngologists, problems of delayed presentation and inadequate diagnostic facilities are highlighted.

Conclusion: The morbidity-free outcome of surgical removal despite the delay in presentation and management in our practice setting with limited facilities are the salient points of this presentation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cheek / diagnostic imaging
  • Cheek / injuries*
  • Cheek / surgery*
  • Head Injuries, Penetrating / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nigeria
  • Skull / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Wounds, Penetrating / surgery*