Giant saphenous vein graft aneurysm causing left atrial compression and cardiogenic shock

Chee Yuan Ng1, Steven Stevens, Mamta Buch

  • 1Division of Cardiology and Cedars Sinai Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.

Insights

A rare giant saphenous vein graft pseudoaneurysm after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery caused left atrial compression. Despite stent treatment, the patient died from cardiogenic shock and sepsis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Interventional Cardiology

Background:

  • Saphenous vein graft aneurysm is a rare but serious complication following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
  • Management of these pseudoaneurysms is challenging due to their potential for catastrophic outcomes.

Observation:

  • A 72-year-old female patient with a history of CABG presented with chest pain.
  • Imaging revealed a giant saphenous vein graft pseudoaneurysm compressing the left atrium.

Findings:

  • The pseudoaneurysm was successfully excluded using a covered stent.
  • Despite intervention and supportive care, including an intra-aortic balloon pump, the patient developed cardiogenic shock and sepsis.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the critical nature of saphenous vein graft pseudoaneurysms.
  • Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial, though outcomes can remain poor.
  • Further research into preventative and therapeutic strategies for these rare complications is warranted.

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