A Rare Case of Pseudoaneurysm of the Brachial Artery in Supracondylar Humerus Fracture

INTRODUCTION: Supracondylar humerus fractures are very common fractures in children. About 10–14% are associated with vascular complications. We report a rare case of pseudoaneurysm of the brachial artery which was promptly detected in a well-perfused hand nearly 2 weeks after reduction and fixation. CASE REPORT: A 10-year-old girl with Type I open supracondylar fracture of the left humerus (Modified Gartland Type 2) presented 2 weeks post-fixation with pulsatile mass in the elbow. Imaging revealed a pseudoaneurysm of brachial artery which was managed by excision and reconstruction using great saphenous vein graft. The fracture united uneventfully and the child made a full return to pre-fracture level of activity. CONCLUSION: The case highlights the occurrence of pseudoaneurysm of brachial artery, a rare complication seen few days or weeks after the injury, which coincides with the post-operative period in children managed by surgical fixation. This emphasizes the need for periodic monitoring of the neurovascular status of the children even after successful reduction and fixation.