AXILLARY ARTERY ANEURYSMS

Aneurysms of the axillary artery are rare but potentially dangerous le sions that threaten the upper extremity with vascular and neurologic c ompromise. Most can be treated effectively with surgical excision and vascular grafting, An illustrative case is presented. These aneurysms may arise as pseudoaneurysms secondary to trauma or iatrogenic complic ations, or as degenerative lesions often secondary to the chronic use of crutches, They may also arise as postobstructive lesions in patient s with thoracic outlet syndrome. Signs and symptoms vary with the caus e of the aneurysm and may include mass effects with brachial plexus co mpression and thromboembolic events involving the hands and fingers. A rteriography is the mainstay of diagnosis, and treatment should be con sidered in most of these lesions as soon as they become apparent to pr event limb loss or dysfunction.