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[Infected false aneurysm due to methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus after proximal aortic grafting]

K Matsuzaki1, N Shiiya, T Kunihara

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan.

Insights

A 70-year-old man experienced a recurrent methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) mediastinitis after aortic graft surgery. A second surgery successfully replaced the graft, demonstrating a viable treatment for complex aortic infections.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Device Infections

Background:

  • Prosthetic graft replacement of the ascending aorta is a critical procedure for aortic diseases.
  • Mediastinitis, particularly from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), poses a significant challenge post-operatively.
  • Recurrence of infection and complications like false aneurysms require advanced surgical strategies.

Observation:

  • A 70-year-old male patient developed MRSA mediastinitis following ascending aorta prosthetic graft replacement.
  • Initial treatment involved sternal wound reexploration with irrigation, debridement, and omental transposition.
  • Ten months later, the patient presented with recurrent fever and a diagnosed false aneurysm at the distal suture line via CT scan.

Findings:

  • A successful re-replacement of the ascending aorta and proximal hemiarch was performed using a rifampicin-soaked Gelseal graft.
  • The complex reoperation utilized hypothermic perfusion with circulatory arrest via peripheral cannulation.
  • Left ventricular venting through a left anterior thoracotomy facilitated safe reentry for managing the retrosternal false aneurysm.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the successful management of recurrent MRSA mediastinitis and prosthetic graft complications.
  • The described surgical technique, including hypothermic circulatory arrest and specialized graft material, offers a potential solution for complex aortic reconstructions.
  • Effective treatment strategies are crucial for improving outcomes in patients with challenging post-surgical aortic infections.

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