Arch Surg Chicago
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We assessed the feasibility of a selective policy for operative exploration of penetrating neck wounds. Patients with bleeding, hematomas, crepitations, dysphagia, dysphonia, or impaired mental status rendering their conditions nonevaluative had prompt explorations. All other patients were observed in the hospital. ⋯ The average hospital stay for observation was 1.8 days. Our experience confirms the safety and cost-effectiveness of selective exploration for penetrating neck injuries. Moreover, observation does not mandate extensive ancillary testing for level II and III injuries.