Serious cerebral complications following unilateral ligation of the internal jugular vein. Review of the literature and a case report.

Serious intracranial sequelae of unilateral internal jugular vein ligation or resection are extremely rare. 22 cases including our own, were found in the literature, eight of them with a fatal outcome. Factors involved such as abnormalities of the cerebral venous sinus system, controlled hypotension, hypovolemia, posture, and dressings are discussed, as well as safeguards and possible preoperative diagnostic measures.