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Journal of Maxillofacial Surgery
Volume 5, 1977, Pages 118-123

Serious cerebral complications following unilateral ligation of the internal jugular vein

Jürgen Rolffs1 and Rainer Schmelzle1

Department of Oral and Maxillo-Facial Surgery (Head: Prof. N. Schwenzer, M.D., D.M.D.), School of Dental Medicine, University of Tübingen, West-Germany

Summary
Serious intracranial sequelae of unilateral internal jugular vein ligation or resection are extremely rare. 22 cases including our own, were found in the literature, eight of them with a fatal outcome. Factors involved such as abnormalities of the cerebral venous sinus system, controlled hypotension, hypovolemia, posture, and dressings are discussed, as well as safeguards and possible preoperative diagnostic measures.