Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026

13:50
Focal Cerebral Ischemia Model by Endovascular Suture Occlusion of the Middle Cerebral Artery in the Rat
Published on: February 5, 2011
A patient with internal carotid artery dissection
Gilbert M Willett1, Neal A Wachholtz
1Division of Physical Therapy Education, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 984420 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-4420, USA. gwillett@unmc.edu
Physical Therapy
|June 25, 2011
Summary
Physical therapists should recognize Horner syndrome as a critical red flag. This case highlights its association with internal carotid artery dissection, necessitating prompt medical referral for this emergency.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Physical Therapy
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Physical therapists play a crucial role in identifying neurological red flags.
- Early recognition of Horner syndrome is vital for timely intervention.
Observation:
- A patient presented with neck pain and headache post-whiplash injury.
- Clinical signs suggestive of Horner syndrome were observed during physical therapy examination.
- These signs prompted immediate concern and physician referral.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging angiogram revealed internal carotid artery dissection.
- The patient's Horner syndrome was a direct indicator of this vascular emergency.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of physical therapist awareness of Horner syndrome.
- Prompt referral for suspected Horner syndrome can lead to early diagnosis and management of life-threatening conditions like carotid artery dissection.
Related Concept Videos
Arteries of the Head and Neck
The human body's intricate network of arteries ensures that every organ system receives the necessary oxygen and nutrients for optimal function. The arterial network in the head and neck region is particularly complex, providing vital blood flow to the brain, eyes, and other critical structures. Prominent arteries in this region include the internal carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries.
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
The internal carotid arteries supply blood to the anterior portion of the cerebrum. They enter the...
The Arch of Aorta
The coronary arteries, originating from the ascending aorta, bifurcate from two sinuses located within the ascending aorta. Positioned just above the aortic semilunar valve, these sinuses house essential aortic baroreceptors and chemoreceptors, crucial for maintaining cardiac function. The left coronary artery and the right coronary artery branch off from the left posterior and anterior aortic sinuses, respectively.
Encircling the heart, the coronary arteries form a ring-like structure before...
Encircling the heart, the coronary arteries form a ring-like structure before...
Transient Ischemic Attack l: Introduction
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a brief episode of neurological dysfunction caused by a temporary, focal reduction in cerebral blood flow. Although symptoms resemble those of an ischemic stroke, the interruption in perfusion is short-lived and does not cause permanent infarction. TIAs are clinically important because they often serve as early warning events for future stroke.Mechanisms of Transient Cerebral IschemiaTransient cerebral ischemia may arise through several mechanisms. One...
