Pseudoaneurysm of the Right Internal Mammary Artery Post Vacuum-Assisted Closure Therapy: A Rare Complication and Literature Review

A false aneurysm of internal mammary artery: A case report

A false aneurysm of the internal mammary artery is a very rare clinical entity. Early and accurate diagnosis and treatment of false aneurysms of internal mammary artery are critical, as it may result in rupture, severe bleeding, and even death. Currently, endovascular therapeutic approaches such as stenting and coil embolization have been considered the first-line treatment. Herein, we report a case of false aneurysm of the internal mammary artery in the light of literature data.

Tratamento endovascular de aneurisma de artéria torácica interna esquerda

Aneurysm of the internal thoracic artery is a rare entity, with variable presentation and a potential risk of fatal rupture. Angiotomography is the diagnostic test of choice and is useful for planning treatment. Considering the morbidity of thoracic access for a direct approach and the unpredictable risk of rupture, an endovascular procedure is the treatment modality of choice for this type of aneurysm. We describe the case of an internal thoracic artery aneurysm discovered incidentally during investigation of syncope and treated by embolization with low-profile and controlled-release microcoils.

Safety and effectiveness of transcatheter embolization in the treatment of internal mammary artery injuries

PURPOSE

Demonstrate the role of endovascular management in the treatment of internal mammary artery (IMA) injuries using transcatheter embolization reviewing our 7-year experience.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our retrospective analysis of cases consists of a total of 12 patients (8 M and 4 F; mean age 52 years) who underwent angiographic studies and transcatheter embolization for IMA injuries. Causes of vascular injury were divided in high-energy trauma (n = 6), iatrogenic (n = 3) and penetrating injuries (n = 3). Type of trauma, associated injury, imaging findings, treatments and complications were assessed. Imaging findings included active haemorrhage, pseudoaneurysm and focal dissection.

RESULTS

Embolization was performed with microcoils in all patients; complete thrombosis was obtained in four patients by additional injection of Spongostan pledgets and in two patients with 300-500 μm particles. The technical success rate was 100%. No patient died as a direct result of vascular injury; one died of myocardial contusion and one for severe multiorgan failure related to high-energy trauma. No major and minor complications were registered. No patient required emergency surgery or subsequent surgical treatment.

CONCLUSION

Transcatheter embolization offers an effective, efficient and safe alternative to conventional surgical management of IMA injuries.