Mycotic cervical carotid aneurysm

A case of ruptured mycotic aneurysm involving the extracranial carotid artery is presented. Klebsiella was found to be the responsible pathogen. Carotid artery mycotic aneurysms are discussed with emphysis on the dilemma of surgical treatment. After aneurysm resection the carotid flow either must be re-established or the carotid vessels ligated. A review of the literature reveals that the majority of grafts or arterial repairs fail if reconstruction is carried out in an infected field. The consequences of acute carotid artery ligation are reconsidered.