Bail-out coil embolization for a pseudoaneurysm of aortic sinotubular junction in a patient with Behcet's disease after receiving multiple aortic operations

Case Report: Coil embolization of ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm in patient with Behcet's disease

Background

Behcet's disease (BD) is a systematic vasculitis that affects vessels with various sizes, presenting as venous thrombosis and arterial pseudoaneurysms. The most severe manifestation in BD is ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm, which is associated with high risks of rupture and mortality.

Case presentation

We present a case of ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm in a 50-year-old patient with BD. After preoperative evaluation, coil embolization was successfully performed to treat the pseudoaneurysm, resulting in a satisfactory outcome at the 1-year follow-up.

Conclusion

Coil embolization serves as an effective treatment option for ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm in BD when open surgical repair and stent graft placement are unsuitable.

Valve choice for aortic valve replacement in patients between 50 and 70 years of age

BACKGROUND AND AIM

There is a lack of clarity on whether to choose a mechanical or a bioprosthetic valve for aortic valve replacement in patients between the age of 50 and 70.

METHODS

In this review, the existing evidence on the subject has been evaluated.

RESULTS

Decision-making in this age group is heavily dependent on patient choice and patient-related factors. Mechanical valves in this age group are associated with an increased risk of bleeding while reoperations remain an important concern with bioprosthetic valves. Stroke rates have been reported to be largely similar in both valve types.

CONCLUSION

There appears to be conflicting data on survival with some studies suggesting a survival benefit with mechanical valves.