Objective:
Although rarely encountered, the popliteal artery aneurysms may cause serious complications resulting in loss of limb. The first goal of in the surgical treatment of popliteal artery aneurysms is to prevent venous thromboembolism and to eliminate limb ischemia and limb loss that could develop consequently; the second goal is to prevent the expansion of aneurysm and rupture. The aim of this study, is to present the postoperative results of patients who underwent surgical intervention with the diagnosis of popliteal artery aneurysms.
Material and Methods:
16 patients who were admitted to the Bezmi Alem Vakıf University School of Medicine and Cardiovascular Surgery between January 2000 - January 2012 with the diagnosis of aneurysm of the popliteal artery were included in the study. In three cases emergent and in 13 cases elective surgical repair was performed.
Results:
In one of the patients who underwent emergent surgical intervention acute limb ischemia did not improve and the patient underwent below-knee amputation of the left lower extremity. Wound infection was seen in 2 patients and improvement was detected with the intensive medical treatment. In one case, the graft was removed because of graft occlusion.
Conclusion:
Although the popliteal artery aneurysms had usually asymptomatic clinical course, serious complications resulting in loss of limb can be seen. So early intervention might be life saving.
Keywords: acute limb ischemia, peripheral artery aneurysm, popliteal artery aneurysm