Ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm after aortic valve replacement: Watch the tip of the cardioplegia cannula!

Abstract

Ascending aortic pseudoaneurysms are rare and occur infrequently from anastomotic dehiscence of suture lines and cannulation sites from previous aortic surgery.1 Open surgical approach is the management of choice but carries a high risk of pseudoaneurysm rupture at the time of sternotomy. We describe a case of ascending aortic pesudoaneurysm with the orifice located on the posterior wall of the aorta, which is caused by the tip of the cardioplegia cannula inserted during a previous cardiac operation.