Unidentified Hyoid Bone Fracture and its Possible Impact on the Patient’s Life: A Report of 2 Cases

Hyoid bone fracture is usually due to strangulation, and, rarely, other forms of trauma. Its sequaelae are often immediate and distressing, and may be fatal. A prominent diagnostic sign is a palpable click. Concealed fractures can present confusing symptoms. Two cases of previously undiagnosed hyoid bone fracture are presented, one affecting the greater cornu, the other, a fragmented fracture of the body of the hyoid. Considerable odynophagia was the main presentation in both cases, for two years in the first, and seven months in the second. In the first case, the probable cause was forcible deglutition against pressure. Spastic tongue and respiratory distress were encountered in both cases. The second patient finally presented with stridor after seven months. Conclusion: Fracture of the hyoid bone can be missed during examination and may lead to spastic tongue and respiratory distress.