Laryngeal trauma in sport

The larynx and surrounding soft tissues are vulnerable to injury during athletics despite protective equipment and rule modifications. Laryngeal injuries are uncommon but potentially fatal conditions that pose risks to the voice, airway, and esophagus of athletes who sustain blunt or penetrating neck trauma. Common symptoms and signs of laryngeal trauma include hoarseness, dyspnea, hemoptysis, dysphonia, respiratory distress, anterior neck tenderness, subcutaneous emphysema, and loss ofnormal laryngeal architecture. Diagnostic evaluation includes plain radiographs, computed tomography, and fibroscopic endoscopy. Most athletes with laryngeal injuries will require surgical treatment to restore normal regional anatomy and vocal quality. Less severe injuries may be treated with close observation, serial endoscopy, medications, and vocal rest.