Ciesla et al reported risk factors for blunt cerebrovascular injury in patient with trauma. The authors are from multiple institutions in the United States and members of the Western Trauma Association.
Patient selection: trauma patient
Risk factors for blunt cerebrovascular injury:
(1) displaced midface fracture (LeForte II or III)
(2) basilar skull fracture involving the carotid canal
(3) closed head injury with diffuse axonal injury AND Glasgow coma scale < 6
(4) any fracture of C1 or C2
(5) fracture of body, fracture of transverse foramen, subluxation or ligamentous injury at any level of the cervical spine
(6) near hanging with cerebral anoxia
(7) clostheline type injury with significant pain, swelling or altered mental status
(8) seatbelt abrasion involving the neck with significant pain, swelling or altered mental status
