Case report: Traumatic carotid and vertebral arteries Pseudoaneurysm associated with vertebral arteriovenous fistula

Abstract

Background Penetrating injury to the neck may cause damage to the carotid or vertebral artery. However, Pseudoaneurysm (PSA) of the carotid and vertebral artery associated with vertebral arteriovenous fistula (AVF) caused by trauma is extremely rare. In order to avoid serious neurological complications, prompt treatment is indispensable. To our knowledge, there has never been a similar report before. Case presentation We report the case of a 37-year-old man who was admitted to the hospital with an hour history of consciousness disorder due to criminal cervical and pectoral stab wounds. Based on clinical symptoms and imaging examination, this patient was diagnosed as carotid and vertebral artery PSA associated with vertebral AVF. With the combination of endovascular and surgical treatment, the patient had no occurrence of neurological complications over one year of follow-up. Conclusion In patients with neck severe injury, the possibility of carotid and vertebral artery injuries must be considered, even in the absence of manifestations. For PSA of the carotid and vertebral arteries associated with vertebral AVF, treatment is necessary, digital subtraction angiography is the gold standard diagnostic tool.