title: External fixation and pseudoaneurysm: report of a case related to tibial lengthening.
abstract: External fixators provide a mechanically stable environment to allow fracture stabilization or limb lengthening. Most complications are related to pin or wire insertion. This article presents the case of a 33-year-old man who sustained an open fracture of his left tibia with consequent infection and bone loss. The procedure of tibial lengthening was complicated by late formation of a pseudoaneurysm of the distal popliteal artery after exchange of the proximal pins of the fixator.
authors.affiliation: Orthopedic Department, Hellenic Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece.
authors.forename: Athanassios
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Papanikolaou
authors.forename: Christos
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Thanassas
authors.forename: George
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Arealis
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Maris
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D017541:Aneurysm, False / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology*; D001858:Bone Nails / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016267:External Fixators / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011150:Popliteal Artery; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery*