Carotid artery thrombosis and stroke after blunt pharyngeal injury

J Trauma. 1997 Mar;42(3):541-3. doi: 10.1097/00005373-199703000-00025.

Abstract

A 2-year-old child fell on a toothbrush, sustaining a pharyngeal injury. Eighteen hours later, localizing symptoms of a cerebrovascular accident became evident. Magnetic resonance angiography showed occlusion of the internal carotid artery and a cerebral infarction. She was treated with anticoagulation and made a complete recovery. Pharyngeal injuries may be complicated by internal carotid artery thrombosis and embolus. Management includes prompt diagnosis, anticoagulation, and carotid artery exploration in selected cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Carotid Artery Thrombosis / complications
  • Carotid Artery Thrombosis / etiology*
  • Cerebral Infarction / diagnosis
  • Cerebral Infarction / etiology*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Pharynx / injuries*
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / complications*