Intercostal artery pseudoaneurysm due to stab wound.

Abstract

Intercostal artery pseudoaneurysm is extremely rare, and only six cases have been reported in the English literature. We describe a case of intercostal artery pseudoaneurysm due to a stab wound, review the literature, and discuss therapeutic modalities. Intercostal artery pseudoaneurysm is at risk for early rupture, and diagnosis before rupture is mandatory. Although embolization is considered to be a feasible therapeutic method, we would emphasize the significance of the anatomic features of the intercostal arteries: multiple blood supplies into the pseudoaneurysm, such as the anterior and posterior intercostal arteries, and musculophrenic artery.