Endovascular repair of an infected carotid artery pseudoaneurysm

Pseudoaneurysm formation after carotid endarterectomy is a rare but potentially lethal complication. The risks for embolization and continued expansion necessitate repair. Traditional surgical repair of carotid pseudoaneurysms is often technically demanding, and is associated with relatively high morbidity and mortality. Endovascular stent grafts have been used to treat both posttraumatic and postoperative carotid pseudoaneurysms. An endovascular approach to these pseudoaneurysms limits the risks for operative damage to surrounding structures and the potential for substantial blood loss. We present the case of an infected carotid pseudoaneurysm that was successfully treated with a covered stent graft.