Chronic posttraumatic aortic pseudoaneurysm

Abstract

Few patients survive transection of the aorta caused by blunt trauma. However, among those who do are a small number who go on to live with an unrecognized pseudoaneurysm that may rupture at any time. Because these aneurysms may be mistaken for more common disease processes, such as hilar adenopathy, atherosclerotic aneurysm, or neoplasia, the authors describe radiographic findings that suggest the correct diagnosis.

Chronic pseudoaneurysm of the thoracic aorta due to trauma: 30 year delay in presentation and treatment

“…Suggestive features include contour deformities, tracheal displacement, mediastinal calcification and a mass at the level of the aortic knob. 6,13 Although open repair is the established treatment, endovascular stent-grafting of chronic aneurysms is gaining in popularity, with encouraging early results. However, patients treated in this way require careful and life-long follow-up in order that mid-and longterm complications such as endo-leak and device migration are identified and addressed at an early stage.…”