Pseudoaneurysm of the superior lateral genicular artery: case report of a rare complication after total knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND: Pseudoaneurysm of superior lateral genicular artery following total knee arthroplasty is a rare complication and has been reported following lateral release performed for eversion of patella in a knee with tight lateral structures. CASE PRESENTATION: This report describes a case of pseudo aneurysm of superior lateral geniculate artery that developed after primary Total knee arthroplasty for a stiff knee in a 68 year old patient. Patient presented with pain and rapidly increasing swelling in early post operative period. Diagnosis was made on duplex ultrasound and confirmed by angiography. Angiographic coil embolisation of the pseudoaneurysm was performed. Since no lateral release was performed in this case, the probable mechanism was shear injury to the vessel. CONCLUSION: Pseudoaneurysm of superior lateral genicular artery can occur in absence of lateral release by shear injury to an atherosclerotic vessel. Angiographic coil embolisation appears to be the best method for treating such post arthroplasty pseudoaneurysm because of less chance of infection, non interference with rehabilitation and diagnosis and treatment during same procedure.