Subclavian Artery Pseudoaneurysm Formation 3 Months after a Game of Rugby Union.
Pseudoaneurysms of the subclavian artery remain a rare complication after fracture of the clavicle. We report a case of delayed diagnosis of a subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm after a closed fracture of the clavicle in a 15-year-old patient, 3 months after the original injury while playing rugby union. Despite several attendances to the Emergency Department with vague symptoms, the final diagnosis was confirmed by duplex ultrasound and Computed Tomography of the thorax. Surgical repair was indicated due to acute limb ischaemia from distal embolisation from a large pseudoaneurysm, with the patient making a full recovery. This case highlights the need for clinical vigilance when assessing patients, particularly on repeated occasions when their recovery appears to be impaired. A thorough history and clinical examination can raise suspicion of even rare occurrences and aid prompt management.
Department of General Surgery, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Llantrisant CF72 8XR, UK.
T
T
Evans
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Llantrisant CF72 8XR, UK.
S
S
Roy
Department of General Surgery, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Llantrisant CF72 8XR, UK.
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M
Rocker