Abstract

An unusual complication after aortocoronary bypass grafting (CABG) is described in which a false aneurysm of the saphenous vein graft to the right coronary artery (RCA) developed and caused profuse intermittent bleeding through the sternotomy wound. The aetiology of this condition is uncertain but it could occur whenever a suture line is present especially in the presence of infection. The diagnosis was made non-invasively by a contrast enhanced computed tomogram and was subsequently confirmed by selective coronary bypass angiography. The pseudoaneurysm was successfully obliterated by coil embolisation of the right coronary graft, which stopped the bleeding immediately and was followed by rapid wound healing.