Trauma-induced large true superficial femoral artery aneurysm: A case report

BACKGROUND: A femoral aneurysm is a weakness and bulging in the femoral artery wall located in the thigh. Femoral aneurysms can burst, which may cause uncontrolled bleeding and life-threatening conditions. The aneurysm may also cause a blood clot, showering emboli, potentially resulting in leg ischemia and amputation. CASE REPORT: A 49-year-old man with hypertension presented significant swelling in his right thigh. The patient had a history of surgery for arteriovenous fistula repair. The arteriovenous fistula in the thigh was caused by a bullet injury during the war. Diagnosis of the superficial femoral artery aneurysm was determined using magnetic resonance angiogram. The aneurysm was surgically excised and a prosthetic vascular graft was inserted. DISCUSSION: The exact cause of femoral aneurysms is unknown, although atherosclerosis and hypertension may play a key role. Trauma to the artery may also be a contributing factor. Long-standing occult arteriovenous fistula plays a significant role in the cause of distal aneurysms. CONCLUSION: Femoral aneurysms are usually treated surgically. A surgeon will replace the artery with a graft or create a bypass around the area of the artery where the aneurysm is present.