Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Full-root Aortic Valve Replacement by Stentless Aortic Xenografts in Patients with Small Aortic Roots
Published on: May 21, 2017
Aortic Repair Through a Left Thoracotomy in a 12-Year-Old Child with Traumatic Aortic Pseudoaneurysm: A Case Report
Kan Wang1, Wenliu Xu2, Chaojie Wang3
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, the Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China. wangkan@gzucm.edu.cn.
Insights
A rare traumatic descending aortic pseudoaneurysm in a child was successfully treated with a novel surgical repair technique. This alternative strategy avoided implants and ensured a full recovery, offering hope for similar pediatric cases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the descending aorta is a rare, life-threatening condition in children.
- Surgical options like open replacement and endovascular repair are infrequently reported in pediatric cases.
- Prompt intervention is crucial to prevent aortic rupture.
Observation:
- A 12-year-old child presented with a traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the descending aorta.
- The condition posed a significant risk of aortic rupture.
- Existing treatment modalities for children were limited.
Findings:
- An alternative surgical strategy was employed, involving aortic repair without an implant.
- The procedure was performed via left thoracotomy with the assistance of distal perfusion.
- The child experienced a satisfactory recovery and was discharged in good condition.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates the feasibility and success of an implant-free surgical repair for pediatric aortic pseudoaneurysms.
- The described technique offers a valuable alternative for managing rare traumatic aortic injuries in children.
- Further research into this approach may improve outcomes for pediatric trauma patients with aortic injuries.
Abstract:
Traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the descending aorta is a rare but life-threatening disease, especially in children. Open surgical replacement and thoracic endovascular repair in treating traumatic pseudoaneurysm to prevent aortic rupture rarely have been reported in children. Here, we present a rare case of aortic pseudoaneurysm caused by trauma in a 12-year-old child treated with an alternative surgical strategy. Aortic repair without an implant assisted by distal perfusion was performed through a left thoracotomy. The child satisfactorily recovered, was discharged, and remained in a good condition during the follow-up period.
Related Concept Videos
Aneurysm I: Introduction
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

