Exposed Embolic Coils Observed in a 64-Year-Old Male With Head and Neck Cancer Following Transarterial Embolization for Carotid Blowout Syndrome.

Background

Delayed migration and exposure of embolic coils is a rare complication of endovascular therapy for carotid blowout syndrome.

Methods

A 64-year-old man with recurrent tongue cancer noticed the presence of foreign body in the malignant wound on the right side of his neck. He had undergone transarterial embolization on his right vertebral artery, right common carotid artery (CCA), and internal carotid artery (ICA) for carotid blowout syndrome 1 month prior. On physical examination, exposed spring-like metallic coils were observed, covered in brownish granulation tissue, at the bottom of the malignant wound. Neck radiograph and computed tomography confirmed the extrusion and migration of the embolic coils.

Results

In this case, the patient was managed by transection of the exposed coils at the wound surface with close monitoring.

Conclusions

Computed tomography angiography is essential for assessing the condition of the remaining embolic coils. In cases with thrombosed parent arteries, a conservative approach, like the transection of exposed coils, can be employed as part of the management strategy.