Carotid Blowout Syndrome

Carotid Blowout Syndrome (CBS) is a rare, but catastrophic event resulting from rupture of the carotid artery and resulting hemorrhage. It occurs when the structural integrity and tensile strength of the carotid artery wall, or one its branches, can no longer support the local hemodynamic forces. CBS is most often associated with prior head and neck cancer and radiation therapy, but can also present in cases of surgical site dehiscence and infection. CBS is a medical emergency, and before the advent of endovascular therapies, mortality rates were as high as 50–100% despite surgical management. Modern endovascular therapy offers several avenues of rescue and treatment for this dangerous complication.