The Heart Surgery Forum, Volume 7, Issue 4

Aneurysm of Aortocoronary Saphenous Vein Graft: Case Report and Literature Review

Julie Mayglothling, MD, Matthew P. Thomas, BS, Joseph B. Nyzio, MD, Michael D. Strong, MD, Louis E. Samuels, MD

Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Lankenau Hospital, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, USA

ABSTRACT

True aneurysms of aortocoronary saphenous vein bypass grafts are a relatively rare complication of bypass surgery, but because the complications of thrombosis, embolization, or rupture are potentially fatal, this condition requires immediate surgical intervention. We describe a 78-year-old man who had undergone coronary bypass 15 years previously and who presented with a saphenous vein graft that was severely degenerated and aneurysmally enlarged throughout its course, measuring as much as 5 to 6 cm in certain locations. Redo coronary artery bypass grafting using the right and left internal thoracic arteries and resection of the aneurysm were performed. We also present a review of the literature regarding diagnosis, management, and treatment of this condition.

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