A rare case of dorsalis pedis artery pseudoaneurysm: Surgical management and review of the literature

Introduction

Aneurysms of the dorsalis pedis artery (DPA) are a rare condition but their management is essential to prevent significant complications, such as rupture or foot ischemia^2,3,4. Despite the evolution of therapeutic techniques in recent decades, the current literature shows a predominant use of surgical treatments, with limited recourse to endovascular options. This study presents a clinical case of DPA pseudoaneurysm and offers a review of current therapeutic approaches.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of the literature using PubMed and Scopus, analyzing articles published from 1955 to the present. We focused on studies that addressed etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment outcomes.

Results

In our review, trauma (25 %) and iatrogenic causes (18.75 %) were the most frequent etiologies of DPA aneurysms. The typical clinical presentation was a pulsatile mass, and Doppler ultrasound was the most common diagnostic tool. Surgery, especially resection and ligation of feeding vessels (50 %), was the most frequently used treatment. Endovascular treatments, including embolization, were rare. No significant complications were reported ⁴⁴.

Discussion

Surgical treatment remains the primary approach for DPA aneurysms, resulting in good outcomes when performed promptly. Despite the advancements in endovascular techniques, their application to DPA aneurysms remains limited, with only one case reported in the literature.⁴⁴

Conclusions

Despite the rarity of DPA aneurysms, surgical treatment remains effective and safe when promptly applied.