cardiovascular disorders
Peripheral Arterial Aneurysms
Key Points
Peripheral arterial aneurysms occur mainly in men; the most common location is the popliteal artery. Complications are rare and include rupture and thromboembolism. Treat lower extremity aneurysms if patients are symptomatic or if the artery is twice normal size; all upper extremity aneurysms should be treated because of the higher risk of serious complications (eg, stroke when the aneurysm extends to the aortic arch). 