A rare case of life-threatening traumatic carotid artery dissection in a child

Abstract

Penetrating injuries of the carotid and vertebral arteries are rare, but life-threatening conditions. There are still challenges in the first intervention management and patient treatment. Deciding which methods to apply in the first intervention, whether to perform imaging, and the preferred appropriate treatment for the patient (open surgery or endovascular intervention) plays a main role in the patient's survival without neurological deficit. The general management of trauma in penetrating neck injuries and the knowledge of special approaches to carotid artery injury are important for pediatric trauma centers. In this case report, we presented a case of penetrating carotid artery injury in a child who has recovered with no disability after a successful first intervention, surgical repair, and proper postoperative care.

Keywords: Carotid artery injury; Carotid artery repair; Critically ill child; Horner’s syndrome; Penetrating neck trauma.