Pseudoaneurysm of the external carotid artery--review of literature.
BACKGROUND
Pseudoneurysms of the carotid artery are rarely encountered in clinical practice. When encountered they are most likely secondary to acute neck trauma, and involve the internal carotid. External carotid artery involvement is very rare.


METHODS
We report a case of an external carotid aneurysm following a neck dissection review the literature and discuss the investigation and management of these unusual lesions.


RESULTS
Incidence is 0.07%, but mortality can be as high as 30%. Clinical features include swelling and neurological complications. Diagnosis is with a high index of suspicion and imaging with duplex ultrasonography and CT angiography. Management options include observation, anticoagulation, ligation of the carotid artery with or without a bypass procedure, and arterial reconstruction.


CONCLUSIONS
Early management with appropriate imaging and treatment to prevent significant mortality and morbidity is recommended.
Nadig
Shri
S
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA.
Barnwell
Stanley
S
Wax
Mark K
MK
D000328:Adult; D017541:Aneurysm, False / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000601:surgery*; D002340:Carotid Artery Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D002342:Carotid Artery, External; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009061:Mouth Mucosa; D009062:Mouth Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D037981:Neck Dissection / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015607:Stents; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed