Ruptured popliteal artery aneurysms

Abstract

Background

Rupture is a recognised complication of ruptured popliteal artery aneurysms that requires emergency intervention. There is little evidence collating the presentation, intervention and outcomes of ruptured popliteal artery aneurysms.

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to deduce the sequelae following different management modalities of ruptured popliteal artery aneurysm.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of all available cases reports of ruptured popliteal artery aneurysms in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocol.

Results

We identified 48 cases taken from 35 case reports and series. Men were more commonly affected (n = 96%), and mean age was 71 years. Acute limb ischemia was the commonest presentation (32%) whilst incidental deep vein thrombosis was found in 43% of patients. The mean aneurysm size was 8.2 cm (range, 2.7 to 13.3 cm). Management consisted of open surgery (58%), endovascular treatment (25%) and ‘other’ treatment (evacuation of haematoma, ligation of aneurysm, amputation or palliation) (17%). The perioperative mortality rate in the whole cohort was 13%. Perioperative mortality was similar between comparing the open and endovascular surgery groups. Re-intervention rate amongst endovascular patients was 25% over an average follow-up period of 14 months. There was one re-intervention in the re-constructive group (3%) over a follow-up period of 17 months and none in the ‘other’ group.

Conclusion

Popliteal artery aneurysm rupture is a serious complication associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Open surgical reconstruction and endovascular repair are both feasible for the treatment of ruptured popliteal artery aneurysms; however, open surgery is less likely to require further re-intervention.