Radial artery pseudoaneurysm

Case contributed by Manali Bhatta
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Pulsatile non-tender swelling over the radial aspect of left wrist following cut injury by chisel 1 month ago

Patient Data

Age: 20 years
Gender: Male

Ultrasound left wrist

ultrasound

Radial artery pseudoaneurysm with color Doppler study demonstrating typical "Yin-yang" flow. Also, turbulent flow was noted in the neck of the pseudoaneurysm.

 A pre-operative ultrasound was done before surgical exploration that also demonstrated the typical "Yin-yang" sign. The area was surgically explored where the pseudoaneurysm was resected but an end-to-end anastomosis could not be achieved. Adequate collateral flow was present from the ulnar artery. 

Case Discussion

 A pre-operative ultrasound was done before surgical exploration that also demonstrated the typical "Yin-yang" sign. The area was surgically explored where the pseudoaneurysm was resected but an end-to-end anastomosis could not be achieved. Adequate collateral flow was present from the ulnar artery. 

Infection and trauma are common causes of upper extremity pseudoaneurysm. Most pseudoaneurysms result from penetrating trauma and can be seen in every age group and any location. 

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