What is pseudo aneurysm?

A pseudoaneurysm is a false aneurysm that occurs when blood leaks from a damaged artery and forms a collection of blood outside the artery wall. This collection of blood is contained by the surrounding tissue, but it is not a true aneurysm, which is a ballooning out of the artery wall itself. Pseudoaneurysms can occur anywhere in the body, but they are most common in the arteries of the brain, heart, and limbs.

Pseudoaneurysms are most commonly caused by trauma, such as a car accident or a sports injury. They can also be caused by surgery, infection, or a weakened artery wall.

Symptoms of a pseudoaneurysm can include pain, swelling, and a pulsating feeling in the affected area. If the pseudoaneurysm is in the brain, it can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and seizures.

Pseudoaneurysms can be treated with surgery, endovascular therapy, or observation. Surgery is typically the best option for treating large or symptomatic pseudoaneurysms. Endovascular therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a catheter into the artery and injecting a material that helps to seal off the pseudoaneurysm. Observation is an option for small, asymptomatic pseudoaneurysms.