Pseudoaneurysm of Anterior Tibial Artery following Tibial Nailing: A Case Report

Abstract

Interlocking nailing is a widely accepted and performed treatment for tibial shaft fractures. The addition of percutaneously placed transfixation screws increases the stabilisation provided by intramedullary nailing; however, the technical complexity associated with the procedure has introduced new potential complications. We report a pseudoaneurysm of the anterior tibial artery caused by a proximal interlocking screw after intramedullary nailing surgery to repair a tibial shaft fracture. The patient experienced complete relief of symptoms following removal of the nail and the screws, excision of the proximal fibula, resection of the pseudoaneurysm, and ligation of the anterior tibial artery. We recommend the oblique placement of the proximal interlocking screws to prevent this rare complication.