Traumatic extracranial internal carotid-jugular fistula leading to serious injury: a case report in forensic assessment

Abstract

Traumatic carotid artery jugular vein fistula is a rare entity that is not usually detected during the acute injury phase. We presented 1 cases of traumatic carotid–jugular fistula. A 52 years old man that was referred to us because of an expanding neck hematoma. There was a 1×1 cm ulcer with a clot in zone II right neck and a thrill was palpated. We clamped the proximal and distal site of injury (Arteriovenous fistula), then divided the fistula and primarily repaired the artery (transversely) and the vein with 7-0 prolene suture. We placed two hemovac drains and then repaired the subcutaneous and skin and covered the site with gauze and then the patient was transferred to ICU. He was extubated the next day and physical exam was completely normal without any neurologic deficit. Carotid–jugular fistula should always be treated early to avoid the complications associated with the injury.