Delayed Presentation of a Post-traumatic Suprascapular Artery Pseudoaneurysm

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Trauma Management

Background:

• Thyrocervical trunk pseudoaneurysms are uncommon vascular lesions, often resulting from blunt or penetrating trauma.
• Management strategies for these pseudoaneurysms typically follow an algorithmic approach, starting with less invasive options.

Observation:

• A 74-year-old male presented with a supra-scapular artery pseudoaneurysm secondary to rib and scapular fractures.
• The patient underwent a series of interventions, including ultrasound-guided thrombin injection and coil embolization.

Findings:

• Successful initial treatment of the pseudoaneurysm was achieved via coil embolization.
• A persistent, thrombosed pseudoaneurysm caused ongoing patient discomfort, necessitating subsequent surgical excision.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of a tailored, step-wise management strategy for thyrocervical trunk pseudoaneurysms.
• It underscores that while endovascular techniques are often primary, surgical intervention may be required for refractory or symptomatic cases.