A rare case has been recorded at the hospital when a young circus performer suffered a severe accident while performing a sword-swallowing act. This incident not only highlights the dangers of circus performances but also warns of potential health risks.
Unusual Accident Details
Mr. N.T.T., 23 years old, residing in Long An province, was rushed to the hospital with intense throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath. The accident occurred when he was performing the dangerous act of sword swallowing, one of the most perilous routines in circus arts.
During the performance, as the 40cm-long sword had already passed halfway down his esophagus, Mr. T. suddenly felt sharp pain and could not proceed further. He immediately withdrew the sword and sought medical attention at the nearest facility.
Swallowing a 40cm sword, young man perforated his esophagus
Endoscopic examination reveals the patient’s esophageal injury (Image: Hospital)
Diagnosis and Treatment
After thorough examinations and necessary tests, doctors discovered that the patient had a tear in the upper third of his esophagus, measuring up to 7mm in diameter. A chest CT scan also revealed mediastinal air leakage and soft tissue damage in the neck area.
Dr. Nguyen Vu An, Head of the General Surgery Department, explained that immediate treatment is crucial upon detecting an esophageal perforation to prevent infection. The golden window for intervention is within the first 24 hours after the injury.
If left untreated, fluid from the esophagus can leak into the lungs, leading to pneumonia or even sepsis—extremely dangerous complications. Prolonged injury to the esophagus may cause permanent narrowing, severely impacting the patient’s ability to swallow and breathe.
For Mr. T.’s case, doctors opted for conservative treatment. The patient was fitted with a gastric tube, fed intravenously, and closely monitored for clinical progression.
Encouraging Results
After 24 hours of intensive treatment, a follow-up CT scan showed stable conditions with no signs of worsening and good response to the treatment plan. Currently, Mr. T. is free from pain, can swallow normally, eat without issues, and has been discharged to return home.
Expert Warning
Doctors advise that anyone involved in or performing dangerous acts must be extremely cautious to minimize potential risks. In case of accidents, victims should be taken to the nearest medical facility immediately for timely emergency care, reducing complications and improving recovery chances.
Mr. T.’s incident serves as a critical reminder about the balance between entertainment and safety in artistic performances. Understanding personal limits and adhering to safety protocols are essential for protecting health and lives.
References
- Original article source
- Relevant medical literature on esophageal injuries and treatment methods.
