[Pseudoaneurysm of the lingual artery after tonsillectomy. A rare complication].

BACKGROUND

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures in otorhinolaryngology; however, life-threatening complications can occur in rare cases.

PATIENTS: We report about a seven-year-old girl who developed a pseudoaneurysm of the lingual artery following elective routine tonsillectomy.

RESULTS AND

CONCLUSION

Initial ENT examination will reveal a painful cervical mass or unilateral palatal swelling that can easily be misinterpreted as a peritonsillar (or parapharyngeal) abscess. Computed tomography and angiography are indicated to confirm the diagnosis. Bleeding from a pseudoaneurysm of any branch of the external carotid artery represents a serious and life-threatening complication. Surgery is the treatment of choice.