Penetrating brain injury through the cavernous sinus by chopsticks in Vienamese: a case report

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Penetrating brain injuries from chopsticks are exceedingly rare, often documented through case reports. Management strategies are tailored to individual cases, with a focus on mitigating postoperative complications. Case presentation: A 33-year-old male presented with a chopstick lodged in his right eye. Computed tomography (CT) imaging revealed two foreign bodies, prompting collaborative surgical removal by neurosurgery and ophthalmology teams. The procedure involved intricate bone drilling to access critical structures, ensuring a successful outcome with stability at 1-month follow-up. Clinical discussion: Common trajectories involve orbital roof penetration, posing risks of frontal lobe injury and intracerebral hematoma. Challenges arise with wooden foreign bodies, necessitating advanced imaging like CT angiography to assess vascular involvement. Surgical intervention offers benefits such as foreign body extraction, neurovascular protection, tissue debridement, hematoma evacuation, and dural repair. Conclusion: Although rare, chopstick-related penetrating brain injuries warrant vigilance in neurosurgical practice. Surgical intervention remains the cornerstone of treatment, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.