Central retinal artery occlusion after manipulation of the neck by a chiropractor

Am J Ophthalmol. 1996 Mar;121(3):321-2. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(14)70283-1.

Abstract

Purpose: To document a case of central retinal artery occlusion after chiropractic treatment.

Methods: An 87-year-old man suffered a central retinal artery occlusion immediately after chiropractic neck manipulation.

Results: A magnetic resonance angiogram showed an atherosclerotic plaque in the ipsilateral carotid artery, which probably shed emboli during cervical joint mobilization.

Conclusion: The carotid arteries should be approached carefully in patients with known or suspected atherosclerotic disease of the carotid arteries.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arteriosclerosis / complications
  • Arteriosclerosis / diagnosis
  • Carotid Artery, Internal
  • Carotid Stenosis / diagnosis
  • Carotid Stenosis / etiology
  • Chiropractic*
  • Embolism, Cholesterol / etiology
  • Fundus Oculi
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography
  • Male
  • Manipulation, Orthopedic / adverse effects*
  • Neck*
  • Retinal Artery Occlusion / etiology*
  • Retinal Artery Occlusion / pathology