Pseudoaneurysm of the anterior tibial artery following arthrodesis on a background of ankle joint tuberculosis

Abstract

A 65-year-old man presented with a 6-week history of worsening right anterior ankle swelling following an ankle arthrodesis. Examination revealed a warm pulsatile 8 cm swelling on the dorsum of the foot. Ultrasound doppler and computed tomography angiography revealed an 8 cm pseudoaneurysm arising from the anterior tibial artery. Fluoroscopic-guided embolisation successfully treated the pseudoaneurysm. Pseudoaneurysms following foot and ankle surgery are a rare but documented complication. Treatment options include conservative management, endovascular interventions or surgical correction. This case highlights that awareness of blood supply variations in the foot and ankle is essential.