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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 1999;16:582-583
© 1999 Elsevier Science NL

Case report

Spontaneous rupture of the common carotid artery presenting as a widened mediastinum

Yorkshire Heart Centre, Jubilee Building, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK

Corresponding author. 2 Crescent Court, The Crescent, Alwoodley, Leeds LS17 7LY, UK. Tel.: +44-113-261-1974

Spontaneous rupture of the common carotid artery is an extremely rare disorder. Presentation in an elderly gentleman as a widened mediastinum with cardiac compromise has not been previously reported. Emergency surgical exploration to decompress the airway revealed a 5-mm tear just proximal to the left common carotid artery bifurcation and a large para-oesophageal haematoma. The case is reviewed and the possible causes discussed.

Key Words: Carotid • Para-oesophageal • Haematoma • Rupture