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Published on: September 25, 2016
Shotgun pellet embolization to the posterior cerebral circulation
L B da Costa1, M C Wallace, W Montanera
1Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|February 18, 2006
Summary
Shotgun pellets rarely travel to the brain, but one case shows a metallic pellet causing a posterior fossa stroke by blocking the superior cerebellar artery. This rare event highlights potential neurological complications from firearm injuries.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Intracranial missile embolization is an uncommon occurrence.
- Cerebral artery occlusion can lead to significant neurological deficits.
Observation:
- A shotgun pellet embolized to the intracranial circulation.
- The patient presented with a posterior fossa stroke.
Findings:
- The metallic pellet occluded the superior cerebellar artery.
- This represents the third documented case of pellet emboli in the posterior fossa circulation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for delayed neurological complications from penetrating head trauma.
- Understanding rare embolic events is crucial for managing complex neurovascular injuries.
