Hepatic Artery Aneurysm/Pseudoaneurysm: An Unusual Cause of Upper Gastrointestinal (UGI) Bleeding and Biliary Obstruction Further Complicated by Glue Dislodgement Leading to Biliary Obstruction

Cureus. 2023 Sep 26;15(9):e46031. doi: 10.7759/cureus.46031. eCollection 2023 Sep.

Abstract

Hepatic artery aneurysms (HAA) and pseudoaneurysms are rare vascular abnormalities, that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. We present a case report of a 78-year-old lady with a hepatic artery aneurysm who initially presented with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) and biliary obstruction and was treated by trans-arterial embolization. Recovery was complicated by glue embolisation leading to obstructive jaundice and biliary sepsis. This case highlights the importance of having a high index of suspicion for HAA and pseudoaneurysm when initial investigations including oesophago gastro duodenoscopy (OGD) are negative. Although rare, glue embolization should be considered in patients who present with obstructive jaundice and abdominal pain.

Keywords: glue migration post angioemobilzation; hepatic artery aneurysms; transarterial embolisation; upper gi bleeds; visceral artery pseudoaneurysms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports