Kissing Carotids: A Rare Anatomical Aberration with Clinical Significance
R Abishek1, Amit Saini1, Sudesh Kumar1,2
1Department of Otolaryngology, Dr RKGMC, Hamirpur, H.P. India.
Summary
Kissing Carotids is an asymptomatic anatomical variation where internal carotid arteries are unusually close in the retropharyngeal space. Early diagnosis via CT scans is crucial to prevent severe bleeding during medical procedures.
Area of Science:
- Anatomical variations
- Vascular anatomy
- Head and neck imaging
Background:
- Kissing Carotids describes bilateral internal carotid arteries medially positioned in the retropharyngeal space.
- This asymptomatic variation poses a significant risk of catastrophic bleeding during oral surgery and tracheal intubation.
- Accurate diagnosis is essential for surgical planning and patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of Kissing Carotids in a 55-year-old female.
- To highlight the diagnostic utility of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) for this vascular anomaly.
- To emphasize the clinical implications for surgical procedures.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis was established using contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT).
- The patient, a 55-year-old female, was asymptomatic.
- Radiological findings confirmed bilateral retropharyngeal internal carotid artery aberration.
Main Results:
- A case of Kissing Carotids was identified in an asymptomatic 55-year-old female.
- CECT imaging clearly delineated the medial placement and juxtaposition of the bilateral internal carotid arteries.
- The anatomical variation was confirmed as bilateral retropharyngeal internal carotid artery aberration.
Conclusions:
- Kissing Carotids, though asymptomatic, represents a critical anatomical variation requiring recognition.
- CECT is a valuable tool for diagnosing this condition preoperatively.
- Awareness and diagnosis can prevent intraoperative hemorrhage and improve patient outcomes.
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