Presentation
Swallowing difficulty.
Patient Data
The images show an aberrant course of both internal carotid arteries, located in the retropharyngeal space and medially displaced towards the midline (Kissing carotids).
Both internal carotid arteries, located in the retropharyngeal space and medially displaced towards the midline (Kissing carotids).
Case Discussion
Anatomical variants of the extracranial part of the internal carotid arteries are found in approximately 5-10% of the population. Retropharyngeal carotids may be asymptomatic, or present with dysphagia, foreign body sensation, and others. It’s important to describe this find before any surgical intervention to avoid complications.