Life-Saving Treatment for 16-Year-Old Artem from Sumy After Rare Neck Injury Caused by Metal Wire

Artem's Critical Rescue

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Doctors at the National Specialized Children's Hospital 'Okhmatdyt' successfully saved the life of 16-year-old Artem from Sumy, who suffered an uncommon neck injury after colliding with a metal wire used in an anti-drone fence while riding a motorcycle. Following an emergency surgery and intensive treatment, Artem remains conscious and his condition is stable.

The injury occurred when Artem, riding his motorcycle with a friend, struck a tightly stretched metal wire. This type of damage, known medically as a 'clothesline injury,' is a rare but serious trauma to the neck caused by impact with a taut cable. Artem’s injuries included:

• a complete detachment of the trachea from the larynx, with a gap of approximately 5 cm;
• near-total separation of the esophagus from the pharynx;
• a fracture of the cricoid cartilage of the larynx;
• pneumomediastinum;
• pneumothorax.

Initially, Artem was taken to a local hospital where he was placed on mechanical ventilation. He was then transferred to Kyiv’s 'Okhmatdyt' hospital for specialized care. The complex operation lasted three and a half hours, during which surgeons inserted a breathing tube directly through the surgical wound. After surgery, Artem was moved to the intensive care unit equipped with ECMO beds. Medical staff reported,

“Artem remained conscious, but the presence of blood in his mouth, difficulty breathing, and vision darkening indicated the severity of his injuries.”

His recovery was closely monitored through regular endoscopic and bronchoscopic examinations. After several days, the breathing tube was removed, and Artem was transferred to the thoracic surgery department. Surgeon Professor Yevhen Rudenko commented on Artem’s condition:

“The patient is now fully conscious, with preserved nervous system function and no brain damage from oxygen deprivation. This means the key neurological functions were successfully maintained throughout treatment.”

The details of this case were shared on the official Facebook page of 'Okhmatdyt.' Doctors emphasized that Artem’s injury reflects the new dangers faced by Ukrainians amid the ongoing war, highlighting how anti-drone fences can pose unexpected threats.

This incident underscores the heightened risks many Ukrainians encounter due to the conflict, where hazards like anti-drone nets can cause life-threatening injuries. Artem’s successful treatment showcases the exceptional skill and dedication of medical professionals working under challenging conditions to save lives. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and vigilance when riding motorcycles in hazardous environments.