Work

Case Report: Area of focus in a case of giant aortic arch pseudoaneurysm following fish bone penetration

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Esophageal foreign body impaction represents a common clinical emergency. In severe cases, it can lead to esophageal perforation and aortic injury, potentially causing life-threatening aorto-esophageal fistulas. While immediate intervention is critical, concurrent infection and retained foreign material substantially complicate management. Case Presentation: We report a rare case of a giant aortic arch pseudoaneurysm secondary to a migratory fish bone. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) confirmed the diagnosis, prompting urgent surgery. Median sternotomy under cardiopulmonary bypass enabled simultaneous foreign body extraction and aortic perforation repair using autologous pericardium. We reconstructed the aortic arch using a branched stent-graft system via the frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique. Postoperatively, systematic mediastinal irrigation, proactive gastrointestinal decompression, and protocolized enteral nutritional support facilitated complete recovery without requiring secondary esophageal reconstruction. Conclusion: Aortic injuries resulting from esophageal foreign bodies frequently necessitate a multidisciplinary approach. This case demonstrates the feasibility of a single-stage surgical strategy combining aortic repair via the frozen elephant trunk technique with conservative, non-operative management of the concomitant esophageal injury, facilitated by rigorous postoperative care. Treatment strategies must be individualized based on a comprehensive assessment of the aortic involvement pattern, anatomical location, and coexisting pathological conditions.

Source: Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine

DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2025.1633808

Authors: Jianxian Xiong, Jiaxin Cao, Junjian Yu, Peijun Li, Zitao Zeng, Xudong Pan

Institutions: First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Gannan Medical University, Capital Medical University, Beijing Anzhen Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Infectious Aortic and Vascular Conditions

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801