Protruding left intercostal mass after left ventricular aneurysmectomy

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Cardiac Surgery
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Myocardial infarction (MI) can lead to ventricular remodeling and aneurysm formation.
• Apical ventricular aneurysms are a recognized but uncommon complication of MI.
• Surgical intervention is sometimes considered for large or symptomatic ventricular aneurysms.

Observation:

• A patient who underwent surgical removal of an apical ventricular aneurysm post-MI presented 16 years later.
• The patient developed a recurrent, pulsating chest wall mass at the site of the previous aneurysm.
• Imaging confirmed the reappearance of the ventricular aneurysm.

Findings:

• The recurrent apical ventricular aneurysm presented as a distinct chest wall mass.
• The aneurysm demonstrated pulsatile activity synchronous with cardiac contraction.
• This case highlights the potential for late recurrence of ventricular aneurysms after surgical management.

Implications:

• Late recurrence of ventricular aneurysms is possible even after surgical resection.
• Chest wall masses in patients with a history of MI and ventricular aneurysm warrant thorough investigation.
• This case underscores the importance of long-term surveillance for patients with complex cardiac conditions.