Citation

Pugh RJ, Taylor RG. Inj. Extra 2006; 37(5): 196-199.

Affiliation

Department of Anaesthesia, Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital NHS Trust, Alder Hey, Eaton Road, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.injury.2005.11.008

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Blunt carotid artery injury (BCI) is uncommon, occurring in approximately 1% of patients admitted to hospital with blunt trauma, but is present among almost 30% of patients in high risk groups.15 It is associated with a stroke rate of 60% and mortality of 25% and is easily overlooked in the multiply injured patient.12 Late diagnosis may contribute greatly to death and disability.18 We present a case of seat belt injury to the common carotid artery in the context of multiple trauma. This is a rare mechanism of injury, with only one previous report of diagnosis and intervention preventing consequent neurological insult.13 In addition to emphasising the importance of prompt investigation for this condition, we discuss the potential risk from a poorly fitting seat belt restraint.