Extracranial internal carotid artery aneurysms.

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Cranial Surgery

Background:

• Extracranial internal carotid artery aneurysms pose surgical challenges, particularly when involving the skull base.
• Management strategies for these aneurysms require careful consideration of anatomical proximity and potential complications.

Observation:

• Two patients presented with extracranial internal carotid artery aneurysms.
• In both cases, the aneurysmal cranial extent contacted the skull base, complicating surgical access and management.

Findings:

• The first case involved ligation of the internal carotid artery.
• The second case utilized temporary occlusion with a Fogarty catheter, enabling aneurysm resection and end-to-end anastomosis.

Implications:

• This report highlights successful surgical interventions for complex carotid artery aneurysms.
• The presented techniques offer viable options for managing aneurysms at the skull base, preserving arterial patency where possible.