A large cirsoid aneurysm of the scalp with multiple arterial supply: illustrative case

Cirsoid aneurysm of the scalp is a rare arteriovenous fistula having a traumatic, congenital, iatrogenic, or idiopathic etiology. Its presentation can range from a small swelling to a large pulsatile mass with tinnitus, headache, and scalp necrosis.

A 67-year-old female presented with a gradually increasing swelling on her forehead and head since childhood and no history of trauma. Examination revealed 12 × 5 cm tortuous midline swelling. Computed tomography angiography revealed a mass of tortuous vessels in the right frontoparietal region of the scalp with no bony defect or intracranial extension. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the head showed no intracranial pathology. The diagnosis of cirsoid aneurysm was made, and surgery was planned. A bicoronal incision was made. The feeding arteries were dissected and ligated. The nidus was carefully separated, cauterized, and excised in toto. Inadvertently, a buttonhole in the skin was created while dissecting the nidus, which was sutured. The patient developed a small area of scalp necrosis on the 10th postoperative day, which was debrided and sutured. At the 6-month follow-up, no signs of recurrence were present.

A large cirsoid aneurysm of the scalp with multiple arterial supplies can be treated successfully with surgery. Meticulous dissection and hemostasis are warranted to avoid perioperative complications.