Superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysm: first reported case after parotid surgery

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Parotid surgery, while common, can lead to rare complications.
• Facial swelling post-parotidectomy necessitates careful differential diagnosis.
• Superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysm is a recognized vascular condition.

Observation:

• A case of superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysm is presented as a complication of parotid surgery.
• This represents the first reported instance of this specific complication.
• The patient presented with facial swelling, a symptom requiring investigation.

Findings:

• Literature search revealed no prior reports of superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysm post-parotid surgery.
• The etiology of superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysm involves vascular injury.
• Pseudoaneurysm formation can manifest as delayed facial swelling.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering pseudoaneurysm in post-parotidectomy facial swelling.
• Suggests a need for heightened awareness among surgeons regarding this rare complication.
• Contributes to the understanding of vascular complications in head and neck surgery.