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Giant coronary artery bypass graft pseudoaneurysm presenting as a haemothorax
G Walsh1, A Glynn, J Slavotinek
1Division of Medical Imaging, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, 5042 South Australia.
Insights
Giant coronary artery pseudoaneurysms are rare complications after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. This case highlights a unique presentation 14 years post-CABG with intrapleural leakage and hemothorax.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Radiology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is a common procedure.
- Pseudoaneurysms are rare but serious complications following vascular surgery.
- Late-onset complications after CABG require careful consideration.
Observation:
- A giant coronary artery pseudoaneurysm was identified 14 years after CABG.
- The pseudoaneurysm showed probable intrapleural leakage.
- The patient presented with hemothorax.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) and angiographic imaging were used to characterize the pseudoaneurysm.
- The specific clinical presentation of a giant CABG pseudoaneurysm with hemothorax is novel.
- This case expands the known spectrum of post-CABG complications.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering rare vascular complications long after CABG.
- Emphasizes the utility of advanced imaging (CT, angiography) in diagnosing complex post-surgical issues.
- Suggests the need for vigilance in long-term patient follow-up after CABG.
Abstract:
Coronary artery bypass graft pseudoaneurysms are rare. A case of a giant coronary artery pseudoaneurysm with probable intrapleural leakage and resulting haemothorax 14 years after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) is presented. The computed tomography (CT) and angiographic appearances are described. To our knowledge, this clinical presentation of a CABG pseudoaneurysm has not been described. Walsh, G. (2001). Clinical Radiology56, 74-75.