A number of findings can be used to identify a false arterial aneurysm.
Features of a false aneurysm:
(1) pulsatile mass
(2) history of preceding event (trauma, catheterization, other)
(3) encapsulated
(4) presence of a direct communication with the arterial lumen
(5) turbulent vascular flow on Doppler ultrasonography
(6) has no endothelial lining
Differential diagnosis:
(1) hematoma
(2) true aneurysm (has an endothelial lining)
(3) arteriovenous fistula
