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Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Microsurgical Clip Obliteration of Middle Cerebral Aneurysm Using Intraoperative Flow Assessment
18:50

Microsurgical Clip Obliteration of Middle Cerebral Aneurysm Using Intraoperative Flow Assessment

Published on: September 25, 2009

[Mycotic aneurysm of the internal carotid artery]

D Kleemann1, S Dinsel, A Radtke

  • 1HNO-Klinik des MediClin-Müritz-Klinikums Waren, Müritz. detlef.kleemann@mueritz-klinikum.de

Laryngo- Rhino- Otologie
|July 17, 2008
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of internal carotid artery aneurysm, likely mycotic, was detected after tonsillectomy due to chronic infection. This finding highlights the importance of considering vascular complications in persistent neck infections.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Surgery
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Head and Neck Surgery

Background:

  • Aneurysms of the internal carotid artery (ICA) secondary to neck infections are uncommon.
  • Infections can lead to pseudoaneurysms or true aneurysms, often presenting with bleeding or swelling.

Observation:

  • A patient undergoing tonsillectomy for abscess presented with pulsatile findings in the tonsillar fossa.
  • Intraarterial angiography confirmed an aneurysm of the internal carotid artery adjacent to the tonsillar fossa.

Findings:

  • The diagnosis of a mycotic aneurysm was established based on chronic tonsillitis history, previous abscess, peritonsillar inflammation, and a decade-long absence of aneurysm on prior angiography.
  • The patient had no bleeding complications.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the need for vigilance regarding vascular complications in patients with chronic or recurrent head and neck infections.
  • Early detection and management, potentially involving stent application by vascular surgeons, are crucial for preventing severe outcomes.

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