Paediatrics Publications

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2011

Journal

Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine

Volume

13

Issue

1

First Page

48

Last Page

52

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.2310/8000.2011.101038

Abstract

Pseudoaneurysms occur secondary to partial disruption of the arterial wall. They are a commonly described complication of arterial injury, with penetrating injury and iatrogenic arterial catheterization being the most common etiologies in children. Many present weeks to months after the injury, and the initial vascular injury is often missed. The complications of pseudo-aneurysm, which include thromboembolism, neurapraxia, and compartment syndrome, underscore the importance of early recognition and management. Definitive therapy consists of ultrasound-guided compression or resection and possible graft interposition. We describe a case of pseudoaneurysm forma-tionin the radial artery of an adolescent girl 6 weeks following a penetrating injury. The patient's injury was complicated by sensory and motor deficits consistent with ulnar nerve compression. This case attests to the importance of adequately ruling out arterial injury in penetrating injury and close follow-up if the history is suggestive. In addition, a high index of suspicion is warranted to facilitate imaging of a pulsatile mass to avoid confusion of a thrombosed artery with an abscess.

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