pseudoaneurysm
Pronunciation: SOO-doh-AN-yur-izm
False aneurysm formed by contained vessel rupture with hematoma communicating with arterial lumen.
Full Definition
A pseudoaneurysm, also known as a false aneurysm, is a contained rupture of an artery where blood extravasates beyond the vessel wall but remains contained by surrounding tissues, creating a hematoma that maintains communication with the arterial lumen through a neck or tract. Unlike true aneurysms, pseudoaneurysms do not involve all three vessel wall layers and instead represent a defect in the arterial wall with an external blood-filled cavity. They commonly occur following catheterization procedures, trauma, or as complications of vascular interventions. Pseudoaneurysms can be diagnosed with duplex ultrasound showing the characteristic 'yin-yang' flow pattern or 'to-and-fro' waveform. Treatment options include compression therapy, ultrasound-guided compression, thrombin injection, or endovascular repair depending on size, location, and symptoms.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenated as 'pseudo-aneurysm' in some style guides; check institutional preferences
In Context
- "A femoral artery pseudoaneurysm developed following cardiac catheterization and required ultrasound-guided thrombin injection." — Vascular complication report
- "The pseudoaneurysm showed typical yin-yang flow pattern on color Doppler examination." — Ultrasound report