Diagnostic value of computerized tomography (CT) and CT-angiography in diagnosis of cerebral artery embolism after induced Abortion: A Case Report and Literature Review

Background: Acute cerebral infarction following induced abortion is a rare but serious complication, often associated with alterations in the coagulation system of pregnant women, hypertension, pregnancy-related vascular disorders, or infections.Considering the societal impact of maternal health issues in reproductive-age women and their effects on families and society, studying the etiology, prevention, and treatment of postpartum stroke is of significant importance.Case Summary: The patient, a 31-yearold female, was diagnosed with an arachnoid cyst in the posterior fossa of the fetal occipital fontanelle during a prenatal examination, leading to the decision for induced abortion via rivanol amniotic cavity injection.Post-delivery, at four hours and 50 minutes, she presented with acute symptoms of right-sided limb weakness and speech impairment.Emergency cranial CT was performed, revealing extensive infarction within the left cerebral hemisphere.Further diagnostic workup with head CT angiography (CTA) confirmed the presence of a critical occlusion in the left middle cerebral artery, a key finding that directed the subsequent management.Given the contraindications for intravenous thrombolysis during the puerperal period, the patient was promptly transferred for endovascular thrombectomy.The CT imaging was pivotal in establishing the diagnosis and guiding the decision for urgent intervention.Subsequent telephone follow-up indicated a favorable prognosis, highlighting the importance of timely and accurate CT imaging in the management of postpartum stroke.Conclusion: Postpartum stroke often results from thrombus formation and is associated with significantly high mortality and risk of residual neurological deficits.Therefore, healthcare professionals should be vigilant in observing early symptoms and providing appropriate treatment to prevent symptom progression.