Endovascular Treatment of False Aneurysm of the Thyrocervical Trunk

Abstract

The thyrocervical trunk is the second superior branch off the subclavian artery. Pseudoaneurysm of the thyrocervical trunk has been reported after attempted internal jugular vein cannulation for central venous or hemodialysis access. The treatment of pseudoaneurysms of the thyrocervical trunk depends on the findings from color flow Doppler ultrasonography and angiography. Although pseudoaneurysms of the thyrocervical trunk are rare, the treatment options should be clear. Surgical ligation is an effective technique that is safe and well-defined, but control through a cervical incision may be difficult. Endovascular treatment of the pseudoaneurysm may be accomplished with coil embolization of the artery, which is described.