Femoral Aneurysm

What is a Femoral Aneurysm?

A femoral aneurysm is bulging and weakness in the wall of the femoral artery, located in the thigh. A femoral aneurysm can burst, which may cause life-threatening uncontrolled bleeding. The aneurysm may also cause a blood clot, potentially causing amputation of the affected leg.

Causes

The exact cause of femoral aneurysms is not known, though atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries caused by a buildup of fatty substances, plaque and other elements) is believed to play a key role. Trauma to the artery may also cause a femoral aneurysm.

Risk Factors

• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Bacterial infection
• Blood-vessel reconstruction occurring in one or both of the legs

What are the Symptoms?

Many femoral aneurysms have no symptoms. The most common symptom is pain below the knee.

How is a Femoral Aneurysm Diagnosed?

• Ultrasound Imaging: Sound waves are used to measure blood flow in the aortic artery and determine whether there is an aneurysm.
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan: X-ray views of the aortic artery are taken to determine if there are any aneurysms.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Radio waves and magnetic fields are used to show areas where an aneurysm may be present.
• Angiography: A dye is inserted into the arteries through a catheter, then an X-ray is taken to show how blood flows through the arteries and whether any aneurysms are present. UVA's angiography/interventional radiology suites are equipped with technology that allows for 3-D images of aneurysms to help determine the best plan of treatment.

Treatment at UVA's Heart and Vascular Center

Surgery is generally required. A surgeon will typically replace the artery with a graft or create a bypass around the area of the artery where the aneurysm is located. Carefully controlling high blood pressure — with medication, if necessary — is also an important part of treatment.