ANEURYSM FORMATION AFTER DYNAMIC CATHETER ASSISTED BALLOON ANGIOPLASTY

A male patient underwent recanalisation of a symptomatic popliteal artery occlusion using a dynamic angioplasty catheter, followed by balloon dilatation. A small subintimal dissection lead to an acute reocclusion. Repeat balloon angioplasty reopened the occlusion but was complicated by a distal embolus which was successfully treated by thrombolytic therapy followed by oral anticoagulation. Angiography 9 months later, demonstrated an aneurysm at the site of initial dissection. The artery remained patent and the patient free of claudication. A causal relationship between dynamic angioplasty and subsequent aneurysm formation is suggested and the possible predisposing factors discussed. © 1990 The Royal College of Radiologists, 38 Portland Place, London W1N 3DG, UK. All rights reserved.