An aneurysm that does not involve all layers of the artery is known as what?

Aneurysms that do not involve all layers of the arterial wall are classified as false aneurysms. In a false aneurysm, there is a break in the arterial wall that allows blood to leak out and form a hematoma, yet the integrity of the wall is compromised only partially, rather than through all layers. This results in a collection of blood that is contained by surrounding tissue rather than by the full structure of the artery itself, distinguishing it from a true aneurysm, which involves all three layers (intima, media, and adventitia) of the vessel wall being involved in the dilatation.

Increasing awareness of the characteristics of false aneurysms is crucial in clinical practice, as they can develop from traumatic injuries, surgical procedures, or infection, and may require different management compared to true aneurysms. Knowing this distinction helps healthcare professionals understand the appropriate therapeutic approaches and potential complications associated with each type of aneurysm.