pseudoaneurysm
False aneurysm formed by contained rupture where blood is held by surrounding tissue rather than intact vessel walls.
Full Definition
A pseudoaneurysm, or false aneurysm, is a contained rupture of a blood vessel where the arterial wall integrity is lost but bleeding is contained by surrounding tissues, creating a pulsatile mass. In cardiovascular surgery, pseudoaneurysms may develop as complications of previous surgical procedures, particularly at anastomotic sites, or following catheter-based interventions. Unlike true aneurysms, the wall of a pseudoaneurysm consists of organized thrombus and fibrous tissue rather than normal arterial layers. Surgical management typically involves repair of the arterial defect and evacuation of the pseudoaneurysm cavity.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from true aneurysms in documentation; specify location and size.
In Context
- "CT imaging revealed a large pseudoaneurysm at the proximal anastomosis requiring urgent surgical repair." — Complication assessment
- "The patient developed a femoral pseudoaneurysm following cardiac catheterization that required surgical correction." — Vascular complication report