Pseudaneurysm of the superolateral genicular artery following an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract

Introduction: Arthroscopic procedures are a safe way nowadays to do anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Rare complications involve injuries to popliteal vessels or one of its branches.

Presentation of case: We present a case of a young patient who undergone an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. This procedure was associated with a meniscal suture. The follow-up was marked by pseudoaneurysm of the supero-lateral genicular artery.

Discussion: This is the first time a pseudoaneurysm of this branch is described in the literature as we discovered it. The treatment by an ultrasonography-guided embolization with thrombin was proceeded and suceeded.

Conclusion: We stress the fact with new arthroscopic procedures and techniques, new complications can occur, and we should be attentive to them and new symptoms consequently, as a painless mass on the lateral side of the knee, to ensure a fast and optimal treatment.

Keywords: Anterior cruciate ligament; Complications; False aneurysm; Pseudoaneurysm; Pulsatile mass; Vascular injury.