Endovascular repair for thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm induced by pedicle screw implantation: a case report with 8 years follow-up

Abstract

Abstract Background Pedicle screw instrument surgeries can result in the development of aortic pseudoaneurysm, which is a rare yet potentially severe complication; therefore, the purpose of this work is to describe the case of pseudoaneurysm of the thoracic aorta caused by the severe migration of a pedicle screw after surgery. Case presentation We herein report a patient who underwent endovascular repair for the pseudoaneurysm of the descending thoracic aorta following thoracic vertebral fixation surgery. A 28–80 mm covered stent was initially inserted through the right femoral artery, and intraoperative aortography revealed a minor extravasation of contrast material. Subsequently, an additional 28–140 mm covered stent was implanted. The patient recovered well during the 8-year follow-up period. Conclusions Vascular complications resulting from spinal surgery are severe and rare, necessitating early diagnosis and intervention.

Keywords

• Iatrogenic aortic injury
• Pedicle screw fixation
• Endovascular repair
• Pseudoaneurysm
• Penetration