Diagnosis and endovascular treatment of an internal mammary artery injury

Internal mammary artery (IMA) disruption after blunt chest trauma is rare. In some instances, it may occur after mild chest trauma with minor external physical findings. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment are necessary, as it can be associated with vascular and parenchymal injuries. We report a case of blunt chest trauma resulting in a sternal fracture associated with an IMA injury, active anterior mediastinal bleeding, bilateral lung contusions, and a left hemothorax. It was successfully treated by selective embolization to the left IMA branch and chest tube placement.