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Aortic flap valve presenting as neurogenic claudication: a case report.
Riaz H Lakdawala1, Razmi Rahmat, Lenny Tan
1Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University, Pakistan.
Spine
|April 20, 2004
Summary
A rare vascular condition mimicking neurogenic claudication was treated successfully. An unusual aortic flap causing ischemic leg pain was identified and stented, resolving symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Intermittent vascular claudication symptoms can mimic neurogenic claudication.
- Arterial disease often coexists with spinal stenosis, complicating diagnosis.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of lower limb pain.
Observation:
- A 64-year-old woman presented with bilateral leg pain during exertion, initially suspected as spinal stenosis.
- Physical examination revealed diminished peripheral pulses.
- An aortogram identified an unusual intraluminal flap causing arterial obstruction.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms were attributed to an unusual vascular etiology—an aortic flap acting as a valve.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) confirmed severe spinal stenosis.
- A self-expandable metallic stent was successfully deployed to treat the vascular obstruction.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering vascular causes in patients with suspected neurogenic claudication.
- Arteriography is essential for diagnosing vascular claudication when peripheral pulses are compromised.
- Successful stenting offers a minimally invasive treatment option for this rare vascular condition.