Popliteal Arterial Aneurysm Endovascular Repair

What is a popliteal aneurysm?

The popliteal artery, located behind the knee, supplies oxygen-rich blood to the calf and foot. Atherosclerosis (hardened walls of an artery due to build-up of fats and cholesterol) or trauma to the popliteal artery can lead to a condition called popliteal aneurysm. Popliteal aneurysms are the most common type of peripheral aneurysm (aneurysm in arteries other than the aorta), causing the wall of the popliteal artery to weaken and bulge out. Popliteal aneurysms may not cause any symptoms or you may experience symptoms such as edema (swelling) in the lower leg, pain at the back of your knee, foot pain, and non-healing skin ulcers on the lower legs and feet.

What are the risks associated with a popliteal aneurysm?

Blood clot formation is a risk associated with aneurysms and can be life threatening by blocking blood flow to the lower limb. If gangrene results from a severe blockage in the extremity, an amputation may be necessary. There is also a risk the aneurysm may continue to enlarge with progressive weakening of the walls of the artery, and although rare, eventually rupture. This in turn can lead to uncontrolled bleeding, which is a life-threatening situation.

What is a popliteal aneurysm repair?

Popliteal aneurysms can be treated by two methods: open surgical repair, in which a bypass is created around the aneurysm for improving the flow of blood; or endovascular popliteal aneurysm repair, whereby a stent-graft (a tube made of fabric with a metal mesh) is inserted into the area of the aneurysm to support the bulged artery.

Your surgeon will recommend the best option for your situation depending on the size of the aneurysm, status of your overall health and condition of the arteries. The surgeries are performed under local, regional or general anesthesia.

Endovascular repair: This is a minimal invasive procedure which involves inserting a catheter (long flexible tube) over a guide wire, into the artery of the groin and guiding it to the aneurysm. Your surgeon may administer medications through the catheter to dissolve any blood clots. A stent-graft is then inserted through the catheter and expanded inside the artery at the location of the aneurysm. This procedure prevents an aneurysm rupture and the risk of blood clots and blockage of the artery.

What can you expect after aneurysm repair?

Depending on the type of repair performed, you may have a short hospital stay of 1/2 to 2 days with a quick recovery after endovascular repair; or a longer hospital stay of 2 to 5 days with open surgery. Keep the incision clean and dry and avoid driving and lifting heavy weights for a few weeks after the repair. Follow-up imaging tests will be ordered to ensure proper functioning of the stent in endovascular repair and proper functioning of the graft in open surgery.

Are there any complications after the aneurysm repair?

As with any surgery, open and endovascular popliteal aneurysm repair may involve certain risks and complications. They include, but are not limited to:

• Blood leakage around the graft
• Infection
• Blocked blood flow within the graft
• Graft migration
• Death