Pseudoaneurysm of the popliteal artery: A rare sequela of acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment that has proved effective in relieving pain of various origins. Pseudoaneurysm resulting from acupuncture is an extremely rare event. Only 4 patients treated surgically for such a condition have previously been reported in the world medical literature. We present the case of a patient who had a pseudoaneurysm of the popliteal artery that resulted from acupuncture therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee. The patient was successfully treated by direct repair of the pseudoaneurysm.