Peripheral Aneurysm

Peripheral aneurysms refer to those aneurysms that affect the arteries other than the aorta. These are most commonly located in the legs.

Symptoms
Most patients are asymptomatic, meaning they have no symptoms. Peripheral aneurysms generally do not rupture but may embolize (send) a clot from within the aneurysms to the arteries downstream. Occasionally, this is a limb-threatening condition.

For this reason, your vascular surgeon will perform a complete vascular exam. If he or she feels a peripheral aneurysm is present, further diagnostic tests may be ordered.

Diagnostic Tools
Many tests are used to diagnose a peripheral aneurysm. Usually, more than one test is done before a definitive diagnosis can be made. These tests may include: 

• Physical examination and patient history
• Duplex/Doppler ultrasound
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR)
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan
• Angiography

Treatment Options
Common treatment options for a peripheral aneurysm include:

• Continued observation for small aneurysm
• Conventional surgical repair (usually a bypass)
• Endovascular repair