Aneurysm of the leg

: During the years 1967-87, 19 patients, all men, have been operated on for 26 aneurysms in the femoropopliteal area. Bi-lateral aneurysms were seen in 10 patients and 14 patients had aneurysms at several levels. 14 aneurysms were operated on as vascular emergencies. There was no perioperative mortality. Six grafts implanted for repair of popliteal aneurysms occluded. Two patients had a major amputation because of complications following acute surgical intervention. As a general rule periferal aneurysms should be treated operatively because they represent a threat to the limb by embolism, thrombosis and rupture.