Atherosclerotic popliteal aneurysms. Report of one ruptured popliteal aneurysm. Survey and analysis of the literature.

The commonest complication of an atherosclerotic popliteal aneurysm is thrombosis but we report a case in which rupture occurred. It is generally accepted in the management of the popliteal aneurysm, that a prophylactic surgical repair is the treatment of choice. Of all available graft materials, the autogenous saphenous vein remains the best material for arterial reconstruction. In the case reported, excision of a ruptured popliteal aneurysm with end to end anastomosis was performed. The signs and symptoms of popliteal aneurysm are discussed and the literature is reviewed.