INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Aneurysms of the carotid artery are rare and potentially a risk factor for developing neurological events. This case report describes the treatment of a giant saccular aneurysm of the right extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) with adhesion to the vagus verve.
CASE PRESENTATION: An 85 -year-old female presented with an asymptomatic pulsating mass on the right neck. Ultrasonography and MR angiography revealed a giant aneurysm of the right internal carotid artery with a massive tortuosity. Intraoperatively, a massive adhesion of the vagus nerve to the aneurysm was found. A resection of the aneurysm followed by a spatulated end -to -end anastomosis was performed. Postprocedural neurological symptoms included a transient paralysis of the vagus nerve that recovered within six weeks.
CLINICAL DISCUSSION: The treatment options of ICA aneurysms include open surgical and endovascular interventions. Endovascular treatment may be a good option for aneurysms with a particular morphology. However, open surgery is the favorable option for immense ICA aneurysms with a tortuous anatomical path.
CONCLUSION: Aneurysm resection with end -to -end anastomosis is a possible surgical option in the case of tortuous extracranial ICA aneurysms. Leaving parts of the aneurysmal wall prevented occurring persisting damage of the adhesive vagus nerve.
