Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026
08:50
Technique and Patient Selection Criteria of Right Anterior Mini-Thoracotomy for Minimal Access Aortic Valve Replacement
Published on: March 26, 2018
Pulmonary trunk perforation during transapical minimal invasive aortic valve replacement
Justus T Strauch1, Elmar Kuhn, Peter L Haldenwang
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Kerpener Strasse 62, Köln D-50924, Germany. justus.strauch@uk-koeln.de
Summary
A rare complication, pulmonary trunk perforation, occurred during transapical aortic valve implantation. This bleeding was successfully managed with purse-string sutures, allowing an uneventful patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Aortic Valve Disease
Background:
- Transapical aortic valve implantation (TAAVI) is a minimally invasive option for patients with severe aortic stenosis and multiple comorbidities.
- Complications, though rare, can occur during TAAVI, necessitating prompt recognition and management.
Observation:
- A case report detailing a perforation of the pulmonary trunk during a transapical aortic valve implantation procedure.
- The patient presented with severe aortic stenosis and was deemed suitable for a minimally invasive approach due to comorbidities.
Findings:
- Following uncomplicated transapical aortic valve placement, venous bleeding from the anterolateral wound was noted.
- Median sternotomy revealed active bleeding from the pulmonary trunk, which was successfully controlled using purse-string sutures.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential, albeit uncommon, complication of transapical aortic valve implantation.
- Effective management strategies, such as purse-string sutures, can successfully address pulmonary trunk injuries during minimally invasive cardiac surgery.
- The successful outcome underscores the feasibility of managing such intraoperative events, ensuring patient safety in complex cardiac procedures.
