Case Report: Identification of a Small Valsalva Sinus Pseudoaneurysm Following Type A Aortic Dissection Using 64 Slice CT Angiography

Abstract

Pseudoaneurysms are rare complications occurring after prosthetic ascending or aortic arch replacement for the treatment of dissections, aneurysms and aortic dilatation with or without aortic valve pathology, and are a consequence of suture line weakness and increased tissue fragility. However, in cases of thoracic aorta reconstructive surgery, the occurrence of false aneurysms or dissections originating from suture lines between grafts and the aorta varies greatly. Suture line disruption is a life threatening complication after thoracic aortic surgery that always requires reoperation. This case emphasises the potential role of CT scanning in the follow-up of patients after aortic surgery.