Posterior Tibial Artery Pseudoaneurysm with Arteriovenous Fistula: Impact of Duplex Ultrasound on Diagnosis and Treatment

Abstract

Post traumatic peripheral vascular injuries resulting in pseudoaneurysm (PSA) or arterial venous fistula (AVF) are rarely reported and may occur independently, or less commonly, concomitantly, following lower extremity fractures, penetrating or blunt trauma, and sports-related or orthopedic injuries. 1 Concomitant traumatic PSA and AVF requires accurate imaging and evaluation of hemodynamics for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Modalities for PSA repair include ultrasound-guided occlusion (thrombin injection), endovascular repair (coils, stents), and open surgical procedures (repair, ligation). A coexisting AVF can potentially impact the efficacy and safety of these options. This case demonstrates the important role of duplex ultrasound in the diagnosis and treatment algorithm of traumatic PSA.