Traumatic arteriovenous fistula of the left parotid region: A case report

Abstract

The formation of arteriovenous fistula beneath the parotid is relatively rare. To the best of our knowledge, the present study reports the first case of a 48-year-old man with a pulsatile mass on the left parotid region, which had been present for >3 years following penetrating wounds. Computed tomography angiography and digital subtraction angiography revealed a fistula between the left external carotid artery and the left jugular vein. The patient was successfully managed through surgical excision without embolization. Intraoperative facial nerve monitoring was employed to prevent postoperative facial paralysis. The present study briefly reviewed the current literature, illustrating the pathophysiology, symptoms, imaging studies and treatment for arteriovenous fistula in the head and neck region. To conclude, arteriovenous fistula located near the facial nerve may be successfully managed by surgical treatment, without permanent facial paralysis.