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  • Open Surgical

Peripheral Aneurysm Repair

Peripheral Aneurysm Repair in Sarasota & Bradenton

Aneurysms Don’t Only Happen in the Aorta. We Treat Them Wherever They Form.

While aortic aneurysms receive the most attention, aneurysms can develop in peripheral arteries throughout the body — most commonly behind the knee (popliteal artery) and in the groin (femoral artery). These aneurysms carry their own risks, including blood clot formation, embolization to the lower leg and foot, and — less commonly — rupture. Many patients are unaware they have one until symptoms develop or an incidental finding is made on imaging.

At Vascular Wellness Institute, our surgeons evaluate and treat peripheral aneurysms with the full range of available techniques, including both open surgical repair and endovascular approaches where appropriate.

Popliteal Artery Aneurysm

The popliteal artery, located behind the knee, is the most common site of peripheral artery aneurysm. Popliteal aneurysms are particularly dangerous because they frequently develop blood clots that can embolize — break off and travel — to the arteries of the lower leg and foot, causing acute limb ischemia. Rupture is less common than with aortic aneurysms but does occur.

Repair is typically recommended for symptomatic popliteal aneurysms and for asymptomatic aneurysms above a certain size threshold (generally 2 centimeters or greater, or those containing clot). Repair involves bypassing the aneurysm with a vein graft and excluding the aneurysm from circulation, or — in select cases — endovascular stent-grafting.

Femoral Artery Aneurysm

True femoral artery aneurysms develop in the common femoral artery in the groin. They can cause local compression symptoms, clot formation, or embolization. Repair is similar in principle to popliteal aneurysm repair and involves interposing a graft to replace the aneurysmal segment.

Anesthesia Type

Regional, General

Typical Duration

2–3 hrs

Performed At

Hospital, Outpatient Surgery Center

Recovery Time

2–3 days

Hospital Stay​

1–3 nights

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is a peripheral aneurysm diagnosed? +

    Many peripheral aneurysms are found on physical examination — a pulsating mass behind the knee or in the groin — or incidentally on imaging. Duplex ultrasound is the primary diagnostic tool and is non-invasive. CT angiography may be used for further anatomical planning before repair.

  • Are peripheral aneurysms always treated surgically? +

    Not always. The decision to repair depends on the size, location, presence of clot, and whether you have symptoms. Asymptomatic small aneurysms may be monitored. Your surgeon will explain the threshold for repair based on current clinical guidelines and your individual anatomy.

  • Can both legs be affected by popliteal aneurysm? +

    Yes. Popliteal aneurysms are bilateral in approximately 50 percent of cases — meaning if one is found, the other leg should be evaluated as well. If you are diagnosed with a popliteal aneurysm on one side, your surgeon will typically image the other leg.

  • Is there a connection between aortic and peripheral aneurysms? +

    Yes. Patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms have a significantly higher prevalence of popliteal aneurysm compared to the general population — some studies estimate as high as 14 percent. Conversely, patients with popliteal aneurysm have a meaningfully elevated risk of having an aortic aneurysm. Comprehensive evaluation is important.

  • What is the recovery like after peripheral aneurysm repair? +

    Recovery depends on the extent of the repair. Open bypass surgery typically involves a hospital stay of two to four days and several weeks of limited activity. Endovascular repair — where anatomy permits — has a shorter recovery. Your surgeon will outline what to expect based on the planned approach.