Purpose of review: This review provides an updated summary of blunt cerebrovascular injury (BCVI) to guide clinicians in its early diagnosis and prevention and treatment of stroke associated with such injury.
Recent findings: Untreated BCVI causes stroke in 10-40% of patients, but more than half will not present with stroke symptoms initially. Risk of stroke is highest in the first 7 days, with a peak in the first 24 h. Computed tomography (CT) angiography is currently the screening modality of choice, although digital subtraction angiography may still be required in some cases. Antithrombotic therapy is the mainstay of treatment and has proven safety in trauma patients. In carefully selected patients, endovascular intervention may also be beneficial. BCVI is a potentially preventable cause of stroke. A high index of suspicion is needed as emergent screening during initial evaluation can provide a window for stroke prevention. Screening all patients with injuries that would otherwise prompt CT scans of the neck or chest is recommended. Treatment is guided by grade of injury. Early treatment with antithrombotics has been shown to be both effective and safe.
Keywords: Blunt cerebrovascular trauma; Carotid artery; Cerebrovascular injury; Dissection; Stroke; Vertebral artery.