Bilateral Ophthalmic Artery Dissecting Aneurysms Presenting with Recurrent Epistaxis

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Ophthalmology
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Traumatic pseudoaneurysms are uncommon vascular injuries.
• Ophthalmic artery pseudoaneurysms can lead to severe complications.
• Gunshot injuries pose unique challenges in vascular management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of bilateral expanding traumatic pseudoaneurysms of the ophthalmic arteries.
• To describe the clinical presentation and management of such a rare condition.
• To highlight the efficacy of endovascular treatment in preserving vascular integrity.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a patient with bilateral ophthalmic artery pseudoaneurysms secondary to gunshot trauma.
• Initial conservative management followed by endovascular intervention.
• Coil embolization technique for aneurysm occlusion.

Main Results:

• Successful complete occlusion of bilateral traumatic pseudoaneurysms.
• Preservation of blood flow in the parent ophthalmic arteries post-embolization.
• Resolution of epistaxis, the presenting symptom.

Conclusions:

• Bilateral expanding traumatic pseudoaneurysms of the ophthalmic arteries are a rare but serious complication of gunshot injuries.
• Coil embolization is an effective treatment modality for these pseudoaneurysms.
• Endovascular management offers a viable option for preserving parent vessel patency.