Late aneurysm formation in a femoro-popliteal polytetrafluoroethylene graft

Eur Radiol. 1999;9(8):1678-81. doi: 10.1007/s003300050909.

Abstract

Since improvement in the material, true aneurysms and pseudoaneurysm formations have become relatively rare complications after femoro-popliteal reconstruction with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts. We report a case of late graft rupture and pseudoaneurysm formation within the straight femoral part of a femoro-popliteal bypass with reinforced (PTFE-wrapped) Gore-Tex graft. The rupture occurred 7 years after implantation without history of direct traumatization. Intraoperatively the whole bypass showed macro- and microscopically visible deterioration of the wall with almost complete disruption at the site of the aneurysm. The graft had to be replaced completely. In conclusion, we recommend continuous long-term follow-up of these patients preferably with duplex ultrasonography.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aneurysm, False / diagnostic imaging
  • Aneurysm, False / etiology*
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis*
  • Femoral Artery / surgery*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Polytetrafluoroethylene
  • Popliteal Artery / surgery*
  • Prosthesis Failure
  • Radiography
  • Time Factors
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Polytetrafluoroethylene