Occipital artery biopsy: Surgical technique

Abstract

Giant cell arteritis is a systemic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects medium- and large-size arteries. Usually, the temporal artery is involved. In rare cases, the patient experiences symptoms elsewhere, such as in the occipital region. In such cases, biopsy of the occipital artery can be considered. Few studies are available on how to perform such a biopsy. In this case report, we describe the procedure in detail, with a focus on the important anatomic structures. We wish to offer other surgeons a quick reference in the case of a request for a biopsy of the occipital artery.

Keywords

• Biopsy
• Giant cell arteritis
• Occipital artery
• Surgical technique
• Temporal arteritis