Pseudoaneurysm of the posterior tibial artery after posterior ankle arthroscopy

Abstract

The risk of vascular injury during arthroscopy of the upper ankle joint was known for the anterior approach. We present a case of a pseudoaneurysm of the posterior tibial artery after posterior ankle arthroscopy. Five weeks after posterior ankle arthroscopy a painful swelling developed posterior to the medial malleolus. Duplex ultrasonography was performed and confirmed the diagnosis of a pseudoaneurysm. Subsequently, the patient was presented to the vascular surgery department and underwent reconstruction. Nevertheless, even four years after the initial surgery, the patient is still not free of symptoms. Despite the greatest care during the treatment, vascular injuries can occur after posterior ankle arthroscopy with lasting pain for the patient.