Infected false aneurysm after puncture of an aneurysm of the deep femoral artery

Pseudoaneurysm of the femoral artery is a well known complication after diagnostic and therapeutic catheterisation. We report a case of voluminous postcatheterisation false aneurysm, which developed on a pre-existing deep femoral artery aneurysm. Infection by Staphylococcus aureus was demonstrated. After surgical exploration, rupture and external haemorrhage occurred before reconstructive surgery was possible. Due to the septic conditions only a lateral aneurysmorraphy was performed. Postoperative angiogram showed an acceptable result. An aneurysm of the deep femoral artery was also demonstrated on the contralateral side. This was scheduled for elective surgery. In conclusion, this complication could have been avoided by accurate puncture technique. Surgical exploration under local anaesthesia is ill-advised. Especially in patients with advanced vascular disease, non-invasive studies of the puncture site is recommended.