Penetrating injuries of the neck: criteria for exploration.

One hundred thirty-six patients with penetrating injuries of the neck over a 4-year period were studied prospectively. Seventy-two patients (52.9%) had no major physical signs on admission, 56 were observed without complications, and 16 had a negative exploration. Injuries below the level of the cricoid cartilage were associated with a very high mortality (12.12%). We recommend a policy of selective conservatism in the management of penetrating neck injuries.