False aneurysm of the digital artery

Abstract

A case of false aneurysm of the digital artery is described. To the best of our knowledge it is the first reported case of false aneurysm involving the thumb. The aetiological factors which are usually responsible for the development of a false aneurysm are briefly discussed. The most common factor seems to be a direct injury of the arterial wall by a sharp tool and continuing flow of the blood in the artery. Although the fingers are commonly exposed to injuries with sharp tools, development of a false aneurysm in them seems to be extremely rare.