Iatrogenic giant subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm following clavicle fracture repair: A case report

Abstract

Subclavian artery aneurysms are infrequently observed in clinical settings, and are divided into intrathoracic and extra-thoracic segments. Atherosclerosis, cystic necrosis of the tunica media, trauma, or infections are more common. Blunt trauma or piercing is more frequently the cause of pseudoaneurysms, and broken bones following surgery should be evaluated.A 78-year-old woman attended the vascular clinic with a closed mid-clavicular fracture due to plant trauma before 2 months. Physical examination revealed a well-healed wound and no palpable pain, but a massive pulsating mass with normal overlying skin in the superior side of the clavicle. Thoracic CT angiography and a neck ultrasound revealed a distal right subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm of 50 × 49 mm. Arterial injuries were repaired by a ligature and bypass.The recovery from surgery was successful, and a 6-month follow-up examination revealed a right upper limb that was symptom-free and well-perfused.

Keywords

• Pseudoaneurysm
• Aneurysm
• Subclavian artery
• Computed tomography angiography (CTA)
• Case report