[Giant aneurysm of a saphenous vein graft with fistulization into the right atrium: differential diagnosis and treatment]

Ital Heart J Suppl. 2004 May;5(5):394-7.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

The aneurysm of an aortocoronary saphenous vein graft is a rare but potentially fatal complication of coronary artery bypass grafting. This case came to our observation after a single episode of hypotension, followed by dyspnea in a man previously operated on for coronary artery bypass grafting. A para-hilar mass was found on routine roentgenogram. The spiral computed tomographic scan was suggestive for aortic pseudoaneurysm. The correct diagnosis was obtained by cardiac catheterization showing a giant graft aneurysm determining compression and fistulous communication into the right atrium. The difficult diagnosis and the surgical treatment are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aneurysm / complications*
  • Aneurysm / diagnosis
  • Aneurysm / surgery
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fistula / etiology*
  • Heart Atria
  • Heart Diseases / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology*
  • Saphenous Vein* / transplantation
  • Vascular Fistula / etiology*