Is a popliteal aneurysm an emergency?

Is a popliteal aneurysm an emergency?

This is a limb-threatening emergency, which carries with it a significant a significant risk of limb loss and amputation, even with emergency surgery. Rupture of a popliteal aneurysm is a rare event, but can occur. Popliteal aneurysms should be treated when they reach a diameter of 2cm.

How do you fix a popliteal aneurysm?

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 …

When does a popliteal aneurysm need surgery?

Open surgery to repair the damaged artery is generally recommended for any sized popiteal artery aneurysm that’s causing symptoms or for any popliteal artery aneurysm that’s 0.8 inches (2 centimeters) or larger.

What does a popliteal aneurysm feel like?

Thrombosis of a popliteal artery aneurysm can cause a severe lack of blood flow (ischemia) in the lower leg, which may result in loss of the limb. Sudden leg ischemia can cause the following signs and symptoms: A change in skin color in the affected area. No pulse behind the knee.

How serious is a popliteal aneurysm?

A popliteal aneurysm can burst, which may cause life-threatening, uncontrolled bleeding. The aneurysm may also cause a blood clot, potentially requiring a leg amputation.

How serious is an aneurysm in your leg?

A weakened bulge in an artery in the leg Aneurysms can put you at risk for blood clots, decreased blood flow, and compression of nearby nerves, as well as critical limb ischemia and loss of limb.

How common are popliteal aneurysms?

Rupture of popliteal artery aneurysms is uncommon, occurring in only 2% to 7% of patients, and even when rupture does occur, mortality is rare.

What size popliteal aneurysm requires surgery?

Some advocate observation at large diameter of up to 3 cm,1 but most consider the threshold for intervention at a diameter of 2 cm. Recently, Ascher et al3 drew attention to popliteal aneurysms <2 cm that were associated with thrombosis, symptoms, and distal occlusive disease.

What is the treatment for an aneurysm in your leg?

Open surgical repair to remove the aneurysm and replace it with a graft. Endovascular repair, a minimally invasive technique that uses catheters and guidewires to place a stent graft inside the blood vessel.

What are the signs of an aneurysm in the leg?

Leg or arm pain or cramping with exercise, called claudication. Leg or arm pain with rest. Painful sores or ulcerations involving the toes or fingers. Radiating pain or numbness in your leg or arm, which is caused by nerve compression.

How is an aneurysm in the leg treated?

How long does it take to recover from leg aneurysm surgery?

The surgery is very effective when performed before aneurysm rupture. Recovery for most people includes five to 10 days in the hospital and four to six weeks at home.