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Frey's syndrome after carotid endarterectomy
M Mehta1, S G Friedman, L A Frankini
1Division of Vascular Surgery, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA.
Annals of Vascular Surgery
|March 11, 1999
Summary
Frey's syndrome, a rare complication of carotid endarterectomy (CEA), involves nerve injury causing facial sweating and flushing when eating. This case report details a patient who experienced temporary symptoms that resolved spontaneously.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Surgical Complications
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Frey's syndrome is characterized by gustatory sweating and flushing.
- It is typically associated with parotid surgery but can occur after other head and neck procedures.
- Iatrogenic injury to the auriculotemporal nerve is the underlying cause.
Observation:
- A patient developed symptoms of Frey's syndrome one month after an uncomplicated CEA.
- Symptoms included an erythematous flush and fluid drainage from the neck wound, triggered by food.
- These symptoms persisted for two months before resolving spontaneously.
Findings:
- This report describes the first known case of Frey's syndrome occurring after carotid endarterectomy.
- The syndrome resulted from iatrogenic injury to the auriculotemporal nerve during the CEA procedure.
- The patient's symptoms resolved without any specific medical intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights a previously unreported complication of CEA, emphasizing the importance of nerve preservation.
- Awareness of Frey's syndrome following CEA is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
- Understanding the etiology and natural course of this syndrome can guide future clinical practice.