Peripheral Aneurysmal Disease

An aneurysm is a bulging of the artery caused by the weakening of the walls of the artery. Aneurysms can rupture causing potentially life-threatening bleeding. This can happen in any artery in the body, most commonly the abdominal aorta. Aneurysms in the peripheral arteries, like the arms and legs, are rare.

Risk Factors

• Smoking
  
• Genetics
  

Symptoms

• Usually asymptomatic, found incidentally on physical exam or imaging
  
• Sudden abdominal pain may be a sign of a splenic artery aneurysm
  
• Sudden pain, weakness or numbness in the leg may be a sign of a ruptured artery behind the knee
  

Diagnosis

• Ultrasounds of the affected arteries can help identify the size of the aneurysm
  
• CTA: once identified, a CTA can provide more information to plan the repair

Treatment

• Monitoring with ultrasounds over time with regular follow up to assess the size and progression of the aneurysm
• Stenting: once indicated, a stent graft is placed to seal off the aneurysm
  

Learn more

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Varicose and Spider Veins
Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT)
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
Peripheral Aneurysmal Disease
Carotid Artery Disease
Dialysis Access
Wound Care
Vascular Lab
Giant Cell Arteritis
Lymphedema
Mesenteric Ischemia