Pseudoaneurysm after arthroscopic subacromial decompression and distal clavicle excision

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Vascular Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a common procedure for shoulder pathologies.
• Neurovascular injuries are infrequent but serious complications.
• Portal placement accuracy is crucial to prevent iatrogenic damage.

Observation:

• A patient developed a pseudoaneurysm of an axillary artery branch near an anterior portal site after arthroscopic subacromial decompression and distal clavicle excision.
• The pseudoaneurysm presented as a small, palpable mass postoperatively.
• Ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis of a pseudoaneurysm.

Findings:

• The patient's pseudoaneurysm was successfully treated with embolization.
• The patient experienced complete resolution of symptoms following the intervention.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare but significant complication of arthroscopic shoulder surgery.
• It underscores the importance of vigilance for vascular complications, even with accurate portal placement.
• Endovascular embolization is an effective treatment for iatrogenic axillary artery pseudoaneurysms.