External ventricular drain-related complications with vascular injury and pseudoaneurysm formation: Mini-case series and review of literature

Abstract External ventricular drain (EVD) placement is a frequent and lifesaving neurosurgical procedure, although it carries known risks such as hemorrhage, infection, and malfunction. In this case series and literature review, we highlight the development of pseudoaneurysms following emergent bedside ventriculostomy in two patients identified at 16-day and 6-month follow-up as examples of this rare, yet significant complication. Given the high likelihood of rupture associated with iatrogenic traumatic pseudoaneurysms, early diagnoses and treatment of such pseudoaneurysms is critical.