A Rare Case of Popliteal Venous Aneurysm

Abstract

Objective

Popliteal venous aneurysms are uncommon but potentially fatal abnormalities, since they can cause pulmonary emboli. Here, we report a case of a popliteal venous aneurysm of the right popliteal fossa.

Method

In a 32-year-old healthy male complaining of a localised swelling and pain in his right popliteal fossa, duplex ultrasonography and angio-computed tomography revealed a giant popliteal vein aneurysm. The popliteal fossa was surgically explored and aneurysm was resected partially and sutured through posterior approach.

Results

Recovery was uneventful and patient still remains asymptomatic. Further duplex ultrasonography follow-ups revealed patency of popliteal vein without thrombotic changes in 1st, 6th, 12th and 15th months. Additionally, no dilatation of the operated vein segment has been observed in the follow-up ultrasound studies.

Conclusion

Surgical repair of popliteal venous aneurysms can be performed safely. Partial aneurysm resection together with lateral venorrhaphy is preferred. Due to pulmonary thrombo-embolic complication risks, we recommend surgery in early stages.