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Updated: Jan 28, 2026

Generation of a Mouse Spontaneous Autoimmune Thyroiditis Model
Published on: March 17, 2023
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.
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.
Abstract:
We describe the diagnostic workup and surgical treatment of a patient presenting with the unique case of vertebral artery (VA) occlusion subsequent to head flexion leading to compression of an aberrant VA by the ipsilateral superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage. Imaging revealed ischemic infarcts as well as the presence of an aberrant right VA, which was compressed by the ipsilateral superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage upon neck flexion. The patient was managed with laryngoplasty involving removal of the right superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage. Laryngoscope, 129:E445-E448, 2019.
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