Traumatic Neck Amputation: A Rare but Lethal Challenge (1997–2022)

Abstract

Introduction: Traumatic neck amputation (TNA) is a severe and potentially fatal injury characterized by partial or total loss of cervical structures, compromising soft tissues, major vascular structures, and aerodigestive pathways. In Chile, no studies have characterized its epidemiology. The literature addressing TNA is limited, likely due to its rarity and the severe consequences for vital functions. Objective: To characterize TNA-related mortality in Chile between 1997 and 2022. Methodology: Longitudinal ecological study. Data from the Department of Health Statistics and Information were used, based on the underlying cause of death “S18X” (ICD-10). Results: A total of 107 deaths from TNA were recorded, of which 84 (78.5%) were men and 23 (21.5%) women. The most frequent cause was assault (37.4%), followed by pedestrians injured in transport accidents (15.9%). The Biobío and Metropolitan regions accounted for the highest number of cases. Discussion: TNA is a very rare trauma, with an average of ≈4.3 deaths per year. Assaults are the main cause, posing a challenge that extends beyond the strictly clinical sphere and involves public safety policies. Conclusion: TNA shows a marked male predominance and a mean age at death of 36.9 years. Our results, unprecedented in the country, characterize a rare but highly lethal event that mainly affects people of productive age, underscoring the need for coordinated prevention, safety, and health response strategies.