Korean J Leg Med.  2004 Oct;28(2):52-55.

Delayed Rupture of the Carotid artery After Automobile Accident: An Autopsy Case

• Jo GR
• Park SH
• Kim GH

Abstract

Carotid artery dissection and rupture is rare fatal complication of blunt head and neck trauma. The authors report on a case in which a fatal delayed rupture of the carotid artery developed in a 53-yearold man after motorcycle accident resulting in fracture of right leg but no apparent head and neck injuries. The patient initially did well. 7 days after the motor vehicle accident, he suffered rapid swelling of the neck, dyspnea, and fall into loss of consciousness. The patient died and autopsy revealed dissection and rupture of the common carotid artery.

Keyword

Carotid artery; dissection; rupture; trauma

MeSH Terms

Automobiles*
Autopsy*
Carotid Arteries*
Carotid Artery, Common
Dyspnea
Head
Humans
Leg
Motor Vehicles
Motorcycles
Neck
Neck Injuries
Rupture*
Unconsciousness