A Rare Case of Pseudoaneurysm of Profunda Femoris Artery Following Surgical Fixation of an Intertrochanteric Fracture.

Abstract

Introduction: Intertrochanteric fractures are one of the most common osteoporotic fractures in the elderly population. Most of them are managed with surgical fixation using proximal femoral nails. We report a patient with pseudoaneurysm of the profunda femoris artery following surgical fixation of an intertrochanteric fracture, which is a very rare complication.

Case report: An 80-year-old male patient presented 3 weeks post-surgical fixation for an intertrochanteric fracture with pain and swelling of the thigh. Radiological evaluation revealed a pseudoaneurysm of the profunda femoris artery, which was managed by the cardiothoracic and vascular surgery team.

Conclusion: Pseudoaneurysm of the profunda femoris artery, though rare, is a serious complication following surgical fixation of the proximal femur fracture. Considering its potential for delay in onset, it can often be overlooked or diagnosed late, leading to significant risks.