Brachiocephalic trunk pseudoaneurysm

Last revised by Mostafa Elfeky on 28 Oct 2022

Brachiocephalic trunk pseudoaneurysms are rare.

Pathology

The brachiocephalic trunk is the second most common site of chest vascular injury. Pseudoaneurysms can measure up to 4-5 cm in length with a diameter of 1.2 cm. 

Most common causes are traumatic or iatrogenic injuries. 

Radiographic features

It varies in size from very small to large pseudoaneurysms. Chest x-ray can show changes in case of large pseudoaneurysms. CT arterial phase of the chest is the most useful in delineating the location and extent of pseudoaneurysm.

Treatment and prognosis

Treatment options are either open surgical repair or endovascular repair.

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