Thyroid cartilage compression causing stroke

William E Karle1, Maria C Buniel1, Helmi L Lutsep2

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, U.S.A.

The Laryngoscope
|March 2, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Vertebral artery (VA) occlusion caused by neck flexion compressing an aberrant VA was successfully treated. Surgical removal of the thyroid cartilage superior cornu resolved the compression, preventing further ischemic events.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Anatomy

Background:

  • Vertebral artery (VA) dissection and occlusion can lead to ischemic stroke.
  • Anatomical variations in the VA can predispose to injury.
  • Compression of the VA by surrounding structures is a rare cause of stroke.

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