Unusual mandible fracture caused by metallic spear: case report and literature review

Abstract

Spear gun projectiles injuries are are very rare and are usually related to lack of attention during water- sports or fishing practices. This study aims to describe an unusual case of facial injury associated with a mandibular fracture after a spear gun shot. A 38-years-old man was admitted with a history of penetrating injury on the face caused by an accidental shot from a spear gun. After the initial stabilization and examination, the patient was taken to the surgical room for the removal of the projectile. The post-operative care was uneventful and the patient was discharged with no concerns, being in follow-up for one year with no signs of infection or malocclusion. The surgical procedure should be done as soon as possible and the removal of the spear must be done carefully, under direct vision, with or without surgical incisions. Major complications can occur after spear injuries, therefore, the patient must be observed in the postoperative period and should maintain follow up until the end of the rehabilitative process.