Case report; successful treatment of traumatic ischaemic hemiplegia secondary to blunt carotid injury associating high grade liver trauma

Abstract

Introduction and importanceBlunt carotid injury (BCI) injury is a rare sequel of trauma and could result in ischemic complication if not detected and treated early. The presence of high-grade solid organ injury with ongoing bleeding represents additional challenge in treating BCI.Case presentationA 25-year-old victim of motor vehicle collision resulted in grade IV liver, grade III left kidney and grade I spleen injury. He underwent an urgent laparotomy with transient liver packing at local hospital. A full body Contrast-Enhanced Computer Tomography (CECT) upon arrival revealed right internal carotid intimal tear with intra and extra-cranial thrombosis and a 3 cm aneurysm. With a decreased level of consciousness, the patient showed a GCS of 13 and left-sided hemiplegia. After complex multidisciplinary treatment sessions, patient recovered with a partial regain of left-sided muscle power.Clinical discussionSelective embolization of active liver bleeding was a turning point in the management of our patient as it deferred the need for a second operative intervention. It was a necessary step before endovascular stenting and recanalization of the BCI to restore the circulation to the right cerebral hemisphere. Dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT) was necessary to prevent thrombosis of the stent and continuity of carotid recanalization.ConclusionBCI with traumatic ischaemic hemiplegia associating a sum of life-threatening multiple injuries including high grade liver trauma with ongoing bleeding could still be managed non-operatively with acceptable outcome in the presence of a comprehensive specialized multidisciplinary service.