Combined popliteal artery pseudoaneurysm and arteriovenous fistula following gunshot injury to the thigh. Case report

Background: Gunshot vascular injuries, typical for military conflicts in the past, are encountered in civilian practice with increased frequency. Case Report: A 23-year-old male was admitted to the vascular surgery department because of a pulsatile popliteal mass on the right, resulting from a gunshot injury sustained 2 months before admission. Additionally to the popliteal artery aneurysm, the presence of an arteriovenous fistula was demonstrated on angiography. A successful surgical repair was performed, however, four years after operation, a mild fixed flexion deformity of the knee still persists. The paper discusses treatment, diagnosis and late sequelae of popliteal artery injury. Conclusions: Delayed treatment of misdiagnosed popliteal vascular injuries results in chronic disability, despite technically successful surgical repair.