Management of giant pseudoaneurysm of ascending aorta presenting as mass in neck: Rare complication of cardioplegia needle

Abstract

Ascending aortic pseudoaneurysms are rare and occur infrequently from anastomotic dehiscence of suture lines and cannulation sites from previous aortic surgery. It is managed by open surgical approach but carries a high risk of pseudoaneurysm rupture at the time of sternotomy. We describe a successfully managed case of ascending aortic pesudoaneurysm presenting as a pulsatile mass in the neck. Its orifice was located on the lateral wall of the ascending aorta,which was caused by the cardioplegia cannula inserted during a previous cardiac surgery. We also summarize the anesthetic challenges and complications of such a case.