Peripheral
What is a Peripheral Aneurysm?
Peripheral aneurysms are those that affect arteries other than the aorta or the brain.
Location in the Body
- Most peripheral aneurysms occur in the popliteal artery, which runs down the back of your lower thigh and knee.
- Less frequently, peripheral aneurysms can develop in the femoral artery of your groin, the carotid artery in your neck or even in the arteries in your arms.
- Having a peripheral aneurysm in one leg increases the risk that you will also have one in your other leg.
- A peripheral aneurysm also increases the chances of having an aortic aneurysm.
Less Likely to Rupture
Aortic aneurysms are potentially very dangerous since they can burst or rupture, resulting in shock or even death. Peripheral aneurysms are less likely to rupture.
Forms Blood Clots
The most common complication stemming from a peripheral aneurysm is the formation of blood clots that may block blood flow either by the aneurysm itself clotting or by a clot from within the aneurysm breaking off and traveling through the blood stream to lodge in another artery.
Can Compress Nerves
Peripheral aneurysms, particularly if large, can also compress nearby nerves or veins and cause pain, numbness or swelling.