Traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the thyrocervical trunk.

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Penetrating neck trauma, particularly to Zone I, poses significant risks to great vessels.
• Early management often focuses on immediate wound care, potentially delaying diagnosis of vascular complications.

Observation:

• A delayed pseudoaneurysm formation occurred in the thyrocervical trunk two months post-stab wound.
• Diagnostic arteriography confirmed an active pseudoaneurysm originating solely from the thyrocervical trunk.

Findings:

• Surgical intervention involving proximal and distal ligation of the thyrocervical trunk successfully treated the pseudoaneurysm.
• This case represents the first reported instance of a thyrocervical trunk pseudoaneurysm resulting from a Zone I neck stab wound.

Implications:

• Routine imaging of great vessels is crucial in managing all Zone I penetrating neck injuries.
• Delayed pseudoaneurysm formation is a significant complication that necessitates thorough vascular assessment.