False aneurysm of the posterior tibial artery complicating fracture of the tibia and fibula.

A false aneurysm of the posterior tibial artery associated with a fracture of the tibia and fibula is described. A review of the English language literature of the last 15 years revealed only six other similar cases. The physician should bear in mind that a persisting painful swelling at the fracture site of the leg might be the only clinical sign of a false aneurysm developing in one of the tibial vessels.