473-145 | IVUS Identification of Undiagnosed Popliteal Aneurysm in the Setting of Acute Limb Ischemia-JVU 473-145

JVU 473-145

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This case report discusses the use of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in diagnosing a popliteal artery aneurysm in a patient presenting with acute limb ischemia. IVUS is a catheter-based procedure that allows for the internal assessment of blood vessels, including evaluation of diameter, stenosis, calcification, and dissection. In this case, the patient had previously undergone revascularization procedures in the right leg, including placement of stents in the distal superficial femoral artery and popliteal artery. However, he presented with acute limb ischemia due to stent occlusion. IVUS was used intraoperatively to assess the stent and discovered a previously unrecognized popliteal artery aneurysm within the area of the stent. This aneurysm was not visualized on computed tomography scan and angiogram. The lack of contrast in the vessel and absence of calcification hindered the diagnosis. The patient underwent thrombolysis and recanalization of the superficial femoral artery and popliteal artery. The IVUS evaluation confirmed the aneurysm and the patient's symptoms resolved post-procedure. The case highlights the value of IVUS in diagnosing an undiagnosed popliteal artery aneurysm and preventing associated morbidity and mortality. IVUS is a highly sensitive tool that can provide real-time visualization of vessel structures, aiding in surgical planning and reducing complications.

Keywords

intravascular ultrasound

IVUS

popliteal artery aneurysm

acute limb ischemia

revascularization procedures

stent occlusion

computed tomography scan

angiogram

thrombolysis

surgical planning