Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Pre-Chiasmatic, Single Injection of Autologous Blood to Induce Experimental Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in a Rat Model
Published on: June 18, 2021
Internal carotid artery dissection: an unusual cause of postpartum headache
J M Waidelich1, A S Bullough, J M Mhyre
1Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0048, USA.
We report a case of postpartum headache caused by internal carotid artery dissection in a 36-year-old woman following uneventful epidural analgesia for spontaneous labor and vaginal delivery. Cervicocerebral arterial dissection requires rapid diagnosis and anticoagulation to prevent thrombus formation and to avoid secondary cerebral thromboembolism. Fortunately, our patient suffered ischemic symptoms, but no permanent neurologic deficit. Anesthesiologists should consider carotid artery dissection in the differential diagnosis of postpartum headache.
We report a case of postpartum headache caused by internal carotid artery dissection in a 36-year-old woman following uneventful epidural analgesia for spontaneous labor and vaginal delivery. Cervicocerebral arterial dissection requires rapid diagnosis and anticoagulation to prevent thrombus formation and to avoid secondary cerebral thromboembolism. Fortunately, our patient suffered ischemic symptoms, but no permanent neurologic deficit. Anesthesiologists should consider carotid artery dissection in the differential diagnosis of postpartum headache.
Related Concept Videos
Arteries of the Head and Neck
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction
Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology
Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
The Arch of Aorta
Encircling the heart, the coronary arteries form a ring-like structure before...
