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Updated: Jan 31, 2026

A Photodynamic Approach to Study Function of Intracellular Vesicle Rupture
Published on: March 17, 2023
Open Approach of Ascending Aorta Septic Rupture
Arvind Appa1, Emilion Hucleux2, Pierre Vanhaecke2
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, Amiens Picardie University Hospital Center, Amiens, France.
Background:
Septic pseudoaneurysms of the native ascending aorta are rare and challenging to treat, especially in elderly, comorbid patients with septic conditions and unfavorable anatomy for endovascular repair.
Case Summary:
A 78-year-old man with prior tricuspid valve replacement for endocarditis presented with methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. Imaging showed a large ascending aorta pseudoaneurysm, likely at the previous cardioplegia site. He underwent successful surgical repair via direct bovine pericardial patch closure under normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass. Recovery was uneventful.
Discussion:
Endovascular repair requires suitable anatomy, including adequate landing zones and small neck size, which were lacking here. Direct surgical patch repair offers a safe, effective, and less-invasive alternative to full aortic replacement, especially in septic, frail patients.
Take-Home Messages:
Multidisciplinary heart team discussion is essential to tailor management for complex septic aortic pseudoaneurysms. When endovascular treatment is unfeasible, direct surgical patch repair remains a safe and effective option in selected patients.
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