Description
The specimen consists of a larynx with proximal trachea and attached thyroid gland. There are
extensive areas of haemorrhage over the anterior tracheal surface extending up to envelope the
thyroid gland and the anterior surface of the larynx as far as the hyoid bone. There is a transmural
tear situated in the anterior tracheal wall, immediately inferior to the cricoid cartilage.
History
A 67 year old woman was admitted to hospital following a head-on motor vehicle
accident. She died soon after admission. Postmortem examination showed separation of the first
and second cervical vertebrae and extensive oedema and bruising to the spinal cord.