Popliteal Artery Aneurysm
- Defined as a popliteal artery diameter greater than 2 cm
- Account for 80% of all peripheral aneurysms
- 50% are bilateral
- 50% are associated with an abdominal aortic aneurysm
- 50% are asymptomatic
- Symptomatic aneurysms present with features of
- Compression of adjacent structures (veins or nerves)
- Rupture
- Limb ischaemia due to emboli or acute thrombosis
- Treatment is by proximal and distal ligation
- Revascularisation of the leg with a femoropopliteal bypass
- With a symptomatic popliteal aneurysm 20% patients will undergo an amputation
This are false aneurysms which occur at the puncture site while doing angiography and angioplasty. It can also occur following injury to the artery following accidents.
If diagnosed immediately it can be closed with sonography compression. Injection of Thrombin can also be used in experienced hand. If this method fails then surgery is the other option especially when the aneurysm is big and causes skin necrosis.
Dr. Pankaj Patel a vascular surgeon has expertise in peripheral vascular diseases, varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis
