Sclerodermiform Dermatitis After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft With an Internal Thoracic Artery Conduit

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Dermatology
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a critical procedure to restore myocardial blood flow.
• Vascular conduits like the saphenous vein, internal thoracic artery, and radial artery are commonly used.
• Skin complications at graft harvest sites are infrequent but recognized.

Observation:

• A patient developed sclerodermiform dermatitis at the internal thoracic artery (ITA) donor site post-CABG.
• This is the first reported instance of this specific dermatosis at an ITA harvest site.
• The condition manifested as skin changes overlying the previous surgical donor site.

Findings:

• Sclerodermiform dermatitis is a rare post-operative complication of internal thoracic artery harvesting.
• The findings highlight a unique dermatologic presentation following a common surgical intervention.
• Early recognition of these skin changes is crucial for appropriate patient management.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider sclerodermiform dermatitis in patients with new-onset skin changes at ITA graft sites.
• Awareness of this rare complication can improve post-operative care and diagnosis.
• This case expands the understanding of potential dermatoses associated with vascular graft harvesting.