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[Blue toe syndrome after coronary artery bypass grafting]
Y Fukushima1, M Yoshioka, K Niina
1Department of Surgery, Miyazaki Medical Association Hospital, Miyazaki, Japan.
Insights
Blue toe syndrome (BTS) can occur after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Surgery is the most effective treatment for this painful condition, which presents with cyanotic toes weeks post-CABG.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Vascular Medicine
- Medical Complications
Background:
- Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a common cardiac surgical procedure.
- Potential complications following CABG require ongoing investigation.
- Blue toe syndrome (BTS) is a rare but serious complication.
Observation:
- Three cases of blue toe syndrome (BTS) are presented following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
- Patients presented with cyanotic and painful toes 2-4 weeks post-CABG.
- Associated procedures included coronary angiography, extracorporeal circulation, and intra-aortic balloon pumping.
Findings:
- Blue toe syndrome (BTS) is a potential complication following CABG and associated interventions.
- Treatment involved antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents.
- One patient required surgical intervention with abdominal aorta replacement.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider BTS in patients presenting with lower extremity ischemia after CABG.
- Early recognition and intervention are crucial for managing BTS.
- Surgical management appears to be the most effective treatment for BTS post-CABG.
Abstract:
We report three cases of blue toe syndrome (BTS) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). All patients were cyanotic and exhibited painful toes two to four weeks after CABG. They were treated with antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents, and one patient underwent replacement of the abdominal aorta. Thus, BTS may occur after CABG with coronary angiography, extra-corporeal circulation or intraaortic balloon pumping. For the treatment of BTS, surgery remains the most effective option.