Multiple Ascending Aortic Mural Thrombi and Acute Necrotizing Mediastinitis Secondary to Acute Pancreatitis

Byung Kwon Chong1, Jae Kwang Yun1, Joon Bum Kim1

  • 1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine.

Insights

Acute pancreatitis can rarely cause aortic thrombi. Surgical intervention for mediastinitis and aortic thrombi in this case led to successful recovery and long-term patient health.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Thoracic Surgery

Background:

  • Acute pancreatitis is a serious condition with potential for severe complications.
  • Aortic thrombi are an exceptionally rare manifestation of acute pancreatitis.

Observation:

  • A patient presented with acute pancreatitis complicated by a paraesophageal pseudocyst and necrotizing mediastinitis.
  • Multiple thrombi were identified in the ascending aorta.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent successful surgical treatment, including mediastinal debridement and aortic thrombi removal.
  • Cardiopulmonary bypass was utilized during the surgical procedure.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering rare vascular complications in severe pancreatitis.
  • Effective surgical management can lead to favorable long-term outcomes for complex cases.

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