Experience in selective operations in the management of penetrating wounds of the neck.

Experience with 100 patients demonstrated that a selective approach to penetrating injuries of the neck can be accomplished without increasing morbidity and mortality. However, this selective approach must be done in a setting in which there are adequate nursing and house staffs. Facilities and personnel to perform arteriography and other diagnostic tests must also be available. Otherwise, observation would be unsafe, and it would be in the best interest of the patient to choose immediate operative intervention.