Peroneal artery pseudoaneurysm after surgical stabilisation of a Weber C trimalleolar ankle fracture: A case report and review of literature

Abstract

A case of post-traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the peroneal artery is presented. This occurred after standard open reduction and internal fixation of a Weber type C trimalleolar fracture of the left ankle in a 33-year-old man. The pseudoaneurysm was diagnosed 12 weeks post-operatively when the patient attended the pre-assessment clinic for the removal of the syndesmosis screw. Diagnosis was confirmed on ultrasonography, and the anatomical site was confirmed by a digital subtraction angiogram. The pseudoaneurysm was coiled successfully, and the syndesmosis screw was removed in theatre the next day, without any post-operative complications. We explore the aetiology of post-traumatic peroneal pseudoaneurysms, with emphasis on the pathoanatomy and management as described in literature. This is a rare complication, but is easily manageable provided an index of suspicion is maintained.