Arterial embolization of metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty-related pseudotumor material causing acute limb ischemia

Abstract

We have described a complication of a pseudotumor secondary to metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty. The patient experienced acute limb ischemia after pseudotumor material had invaded and stenosed the external iliac artery and embolized distally. Multiple vascular surgery procedures were performed to revascularize the limb. The present report highlights the importance of involving vascular surgeons early in a limb-threatening presentation of a pseudotumor to achieve limb salvage.

Keywords

• Acute limb ischemia
• Arterial embolus
• Limb salvage
• Metal-on-metal joint prosthesis
• Vascular surgical procedures