A rare complication after an interventional procedure using the common carotid: carotid pseudoaneurysm in an infant

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pediatric Interventional Procedures
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• The carotid artery serves as a critical vascular access point for complex interventional and surgical procedures, particularly in premature infants.
• Historically, surgical cut-down was employed, but current practices predominantly utilize ultrasonographic guidance for carotid artery access.
• Potential complications include bleeding, hematoma, and the rare but serious pseudoaneurysm formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the diagnosis and treatment of a pseudoaneurysm in the left common carotid artery.
• To highlight the management of this rare complication following transcatheter coarctation balloon angioplasty in an infant.

Main Methods:

• Review of a clinical case involving a 6-month-old infant.
• Diagnostic imaging and assessment of a left common carotid artery pseudoaneurysm.
• Description of the treatment strategy employed for the pseudoaneurysm.

Main Results:

• A pseudoaneurysm was diagnosed in the left common carotid artery post-procedure.
• The case illustrates the successful management of this rare vascular complication.
• The study emphasizes the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention.

Conclusions:

• Pseudoaneurysm of the carotid artery is a rare but significant complication of interventional procedures in infants.
• Accurate diagnosis and prompt, tailored treatment planning are essential for favorable outcomes.
• Ultrasonographic guidance in vascular access may reduce but not eliminate the risk of such complications.