Superior Gluteal Artery Pseudoaneurysm Following a Minor Ground-Level Traumatic Fall

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Pseudoaneurysms of the superior gluteal artery (SGA) are rare vascular lesions.
• Patients on antiplatelet therapy may have increased risk of bleeding complications.
• Minor trauma can precipitate vascular injury in susceptible individuals.

Observation:

• A 51-year-old male on antiplatelet therapy developed a symptomatic right gluteal mass after a ground-level fall.
• Initial diagnosis was a resolving hematoma, but symptoms persisted for six months.
• Intraoperative hemorrhage during presumed hematoma evacuation revealed an SGA pseudoaneurysm.

Findings:

• Successful endovascular embolization of the superior gluteal artery pseudoaneurysm was performed.
• The pseudoaneurysm was initially misdiagnosed due to its subclinical presentation.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering vascular injury, like SGA pseudoaneurysms, after minor trauma, especially in patients on antiplatelet medication.
• Suggests a higher index of suspicion is needed for early diagnosis and intervention.
• Emphasizes the potential for life-threatening complications if vascular injuries are overlooked.