Spontaneous resolution of traumatic pseudoaneurysm: A case report

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Neuroradiology
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Traumatic pseudoaneurysms (TPs) are rare vascular injuries typically requiring surgical intervention.
• While growth and rupture are common outcomes, TPs can also resolve spontaneously.
• This case report explores an unusual instance of TP spontaneous resolution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of spontaneous resolution of a traumatic pseudoaneurysm.
• To inform future clinical strategies for managing TPs.

Main Methods:

• A 47-year-old female with a history of head trauma was diagnosed with a traumatic pseudoaneurysm (TP) of the left internal carotid artery.
• Serial computed tomography angiography and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were used to monitor the lesion.
• Conservative management was chosen due to observed aneurysm size reduction.

Main Results:

• Initial imaging revealed a saccular protrusion consistent with a TP.
• Follow-up DSA at 4 weeks showed a progressive reduction in aneurysm size.
• At 8 weeks post-injury, DSA confirmed the complete spontaneous disappearance of the TP.
• No recurrence or symptoms were noted at 1-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Spontaneous healing of TPs is uncommon and its mechanism is not fully understood.
• Conservative management requires diligent imaging surveillance due to potential recurrence risk.
• This case suggests that conservative management may be a viable option for select TPs.