Major laceration of left vertebral artery Save
ICD-10 code: S15.122
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
Major laceration of left vertebral artery: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A major laceration of the left vertebral artery is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. The vertebral arteries are two large blood vessels that run up the back of the neck and supply blood to the brain. When one of these arteries is lacerated, it can cause significant bleeding and potentially life-threatening complications.
Causes
A major laceration of the left vertebral artery can be caused by a number of different factors. Trauma to the neck or head is the most common cause, such as a car accident or a fall. It can also occur during certain medical procedures, such as spinal surgery or a biopsy.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a major laceration of the left vertebral artery can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden onset of severe headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
If you experience any of these symptoms after a head or neck injury, seek medical attention immediately.
Treatment
Treatment for a major laceration of the left vertebral artery will depend on the severity of the injury. In some cases, the bleeding may stop on its own. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the artery and stop the bleeding.
During surgery, the damaged portion of the artery may be removed and replaced with a graft. In some cases, a stent may be inserted to keep the artery open. After surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a period of time to ensure that complications do not arise.
If you suspect that you may have a major laceration of the left vertebral artery, seek medical attention immediately. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of a full recovery.