Common Carotid Artery Dissection Can Occur in an Auto Accident

Common Carotid Artery Dissection Can Occur in an Auto Accident

The brain is one of the most important organs in the body, giving rise to consciousness, judgment, motor, and sensory function. Therefore, stable blood supply is vital to the proper role of the brain and the human body as a whole. One of the most common injuries that can deprive the brain of its blood supply is a common carotid artery dissection.

The brain is a complex organ consisting of billions of neurons that work together to process thought, coordinate motor functions, and relay sensory connections throughout the body. These neurons, like the other parts of the body, require a stable blood supply to perform their functions. The blood starts in the heart and travels to the lungs to pick up oxygen. The blood then returns to the heart and is pumped to the brain through the carotid arteries. Once in the brain, the blood passes through numerous, smaller arteries in the brain as it reaches every cell in the brain individually. The blood supply carries oxygen, sugar, and other vital sources of energy that the brain needs to perform its job. If the blood flow is disrupted, it could leave the brain starved for a source of energy. If this is not corrected quickly, it could be fatal. One of the ways that the blood supply to the brain is disrupted is through a common carotid artery dissection.

Causes of a Common Carotid Artery Dissection

The carotid artery is one of the most critical blood vessels in the body because it provides the brain with blood. The carotid arteries exist on either side of the neck and pass from the chest through the neck and into the brain. A recent review article discussed some of the most common ways that a common carotid artery dissection, or a small tear in the carotid artery, can occur. These include:

Athletics: People who wrestle on a regular basis are prone to developing this type of injury. When they are placed in a headlock, the arms of the opponent are wrapped around the neck. This pressure can tear the common carotid.

Accidents: Auto accidents are among the common ways that a tear in the carotid might develop. When people strike an object in front of them, their neck and head can hit the steering wheel, window, or dashboard with extreme force. This can lead to a tear in the carotid artery.

Assault: Criminal activity can lead to a common carotid artery dissection as well. Penetrating wounds in the neck can slice the carotid, creating a medical emergency.
In the review article, one of the crucial issues that they discuss is how a stroke can arise from a tear in the common carotid. When this tear occurs, small epithelial cells that used to make up the wall of the carotid are shredded. These bits and pieces can end up in the carotid artery and can travel north to the brain. If they get lodged in one of the smaller arteries in the brain, they can cause the individual to develop a stroke, which could lead to wrongful death.

Legal Action Resulting from Traumatic Accidents

When someone has been involved in a serious car accident, particularly one which results in traumatic injuries, some issues can create stress for a family. These include:

• Loss of Property
• Missed Work
• Insurance Problems

When these issues arise, a consultation with a lawyer can be helpful. There are many options available for trying to handle the logistical and financial issues that come with traumatic accidents. Examples of problems attorneys can assist with include:

• Loss of Income
• Insurance Claims
• Accident Investigations

If the case needs to be taken to court, it is helpful to have an experienced attorney on your side.

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