Perforation of a Saphenous Vein Graft Anastomosed at a Y-Configuration to the Left Internal Mammary Artery

Abstract

Perforation of a saphenous vein graft (SVG) is a rare, yet dreadful complication during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Perforation of a SVG arising at a Y-construction from the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) can be catastrophic since manipulations and material delivery through the single LIMA inflow can aggravate ischemia and accelerate hemodynamic collapse. Prior CABG and pericardial obliteration should not offer reassurance against tamponade, since coronary perforation in these patients may cause the development of loculated pericardial effusions, a complication associated with high mortality. Treating physicians must be alert for potential periprocedural pitfalls during PCI in post-CABG patients and these should be taken into consideration during interventional planning, procedure and follow-up.

Keywords: CABG; Covered stent; Loculated tamponade; Perforation; Vein graft.