A giant post-dissection aneurysm of the ascending aorta in an octogenarian

Abstract

Aneurysm formation is a well-known complication of untreated long-standing dissection of the aorta. Despite numerous advances in cardiac surgery, intrinsic diseases of the ascending aorta and aortic arch requiring surgical therapy, remain a technical challenge. However, surgery is the only option for eff ective treatment of ascending aorta aneurysm but carries an increased risk of severe morbidity and mortality, particularly in the elderly¹. We report on the successful repair of a giant ascending aorta aneurysm due to chronic dissection in an elderly woman with dyspnoea as main symptom.

Key Words:

• Aortic dissection
• aortic aneurysm