Makindo Medical Notes

Definition: An aneurysm is a localized dilation of an artery caused by a weakness in the arterial wall. May be seen post vascular access in cardiology. A femoral artery aneurysm is a localized dilation of the femoral artery, which can lead to several complications if left untreated.

Complications:

• Rupture: The aneurysm may rupture, leading to severe hemorrhage and hypovolemic shock, which is a life-threatening emergency.
• Thrombosis: Blood clots may form within the aneurysm, leading to complete occlusion of the femoral artery and resulting in acute limb ischaemia.
• Embolization: Thrombi or emboli may break off from the aneurysm and travel distally, causing occlusion of smaller arteries and ischaemia in the lower leg or foot.
• Compression of Surrounding Structures: Large aneurysms can compress nearby nerves or veins, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, or venous thrombosis.

Clinical

• Pain or discomfort in the groin or thigh.
• Pulsatile mass in the groin region.
• Leg swelling or ischaemic symptoms, especially with clot formation.
• Signs of acute ischaemia (pain, pallor, pulselessness) if thrombus or embolization occurs.

Management

• ABC and inform cardiologist and get vascular consult
• Surgical repair is indicated for symptomatic aneurysms or those at risk of rupture or thrombosis.
• Endovascular repair (stent-graft placement) may be an option in select cases.
• Anticoagulation may be used to reduce the risk of thrombosis and embolization.