Degenerative aneurysms of the superficial femoral artery

To review the pathogenesis, diagnosis, presentation, diagnosis, management and outcomes (morbidity and mortality) of superficial femoral artery aneurysms.

A comprehensive review of this entity was performed based on the available literature in all languages and a detailed discussion of our findings is also provided.

Our review identified 61 cases of SFA aneurysms. They were most often seen in elderly men, predominately affected the right lower extremity, and were most often located in the middle-third of the artery. At the time of diagnosis, SFA aneurysms were frequently symptomatic because they reached a relative large diameter before the diagnosis was made. The most frequent presentation was localized pain in association with a pulsatile mass. In contrast to popliteal aneurysms, SFA aneurysms more frequently present with rupture than distal ischemia. Angiography was by far the most commonly utilized diagnostic tool. Treatment was primarily by means of an interposition graft, followed by exclusion and surgical bypass. Endovascular repair of SFA aneurysms has only been reported in three instances. SFA aneurysm repair was most often associated with favorable outcomes, with low reported rates of ischemia and limb loss.