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Left internal mammary artery graft perforation due to high-pressure stent deployment

M Sharifi1, M W Turrentine, Y Mahomed

  • 1Department of Medicine, The Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis 46202, USA.

Insights

A rare complication of coronary interventions, left internal mammary artery (LIMA) graft perforation after stent deployment, can cause severe bleeding. Prompt treatment involving pericardiocentesis and surgery can be life-saving.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Graft Complications

Background:

  • Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) frequently utilizes the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) for its durability.
  • Stent deployment during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a standard procedure.
  • Perforation of a newly placed LIMA graft during PCI is a rare but serious complication.

Observation:

  • A patient developed a perforation of a LIMA graft 12 days after CABG surgery.
  • The perforation occurred during stent deployment using a high-pressure balloon.
  • This complication led to significant hemorrhage and cardiac tamponade.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent emergent pericardiocentesis to relieve cardiac tamponade.
  • Rapid autotransfusion of pericardial aspirate was performed.
  • Surgical repair of the ruptured LIMA graft was successfully accomplished.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the potential risks associated with PCI in patients with recent LIMA grafts.
  • Timely and aggressive management, including pericardiocentesis and surgical repair, is crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • Further research may explore preventative strategies to minimize LIMA graft injury during PCI.

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