Traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the superficial temporal artery: Two cases

Abstract

Pseudoaneurysms of the superficial temporal artery are a rare and potentially critical cause of facial masses. Most pseudoaneurysms form as a result of blunt trauma and present as painless, pulsatile tumors that may be associated with neuropathic findings and enlarged size. Without careful evaluation in the primary care setting, pseudoaneurysms can be easily misdiagnosed and improperly managed. They can, however, be accurately diagnosed through physical examination alone and subsequently treated with surgical ligation. The authors present two cases of traumatic pseudoaneurysms of the superficial temporal artery caused by blunt injury and discuss pertinent diagnosis and treatment options, as well as provide a brief review of the anatomy and histopathology of pseudoaneurysms.