Post-Traumatic True Superficial Temporal Artery Aneurysm in a Pediatric Patient

Specifically, the anterior branch of the STA is the most vulnerable site as it courses superficially along the side of the head in the temporal region and is in close proximity to several bony projections which can cause compression in the setting of trauma leading to the development of an aneurysm or pseudoaneurysm. 1 As per literature, the physical evidence or the sequela of trauma is not seen after 2-6 weeks after the injury. 1 Additional causes include atherosclerosis, infection, and congenital defects among others. Computed tomography, angiography, and magnetic resonance angiography can also be used in conjunction if no diagnosis is reached after the initial testing methods. 4 The need for imaging studies is to rule out other conditions that can mimic an aneurysm such as lipoma, cyst, arteriovenous fistula, abscess, or hematomas. 4 The treatment options range from conservative strategies to surgical intervention. Other interventions like endovascular treatments, such as thrombin injection and catheter-based embolization, have been described, with limited to moderate results. 4 To achieve complete resolution, surgical intervention remains the “gold standard”.1-4 The ambulatory procedure is performed with relative ease with local anesthesia or under general anesthesia if the patient is too young and uncooperative.