Common carotid artery aneurysm after blunt trauma

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Blunt trauma to the neck is a recognized cause of vascular injury.
• False aneurysms, or pseudoaneurysms, are contained arterial wall ruptures.
• The common carotid artery is a major vessel supplying the brain.

Observation:

• A case of false aneurysm of the common carotid artery following blunt trauma is presented.
• A literature review identified seven additional cases of this rare injury.
• The clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges of carotid artery false aneurysms are highlighted.

Findings:

• False aneurysms of the common carotid artery are rare but serious consequences of blunt neck trauma.
• Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management of these injuries.
• Surgical repair, including lateral excision with arteriorrhaphy or aneurysm resection, is the recommended treatment.

Implications:

• Prompt surgical management of carotid artery false aneurysms can prevent complications such as stroke or hemorrhage.
• This case and literature review underscore the importance of considering vascular injury in patients with blunt neck trauma.
• Optimal surgical techniques should be tailored to the size and characteristics of the aneurysm.