Ruptured aneurysm of extracranial carotid artery.

Aneurysm of extracranial carotid artery is an uncommon clinical disease and that presenting as a ruptured aneurysm is extremely rare. This entity represents a challenge to treatment strategy. A 54 year old hypertensive male presented with painful, pulsatile mass in left neck. Duplex scan revealed the ruptured left carotid artery at its bifurcation. Angiogram depicted clear picture of ruptured carotid artery aneurysm. Resection of aneurysm was performed with placement of external carotid shunt. Continuity was maintained with interposition of Dacron graft.