Superior vena cava syndrome caused by a giant right coronary artery aneurysm

Abstract

We present the case of a 61-year-old male who was admitted with superior vena cava syndrome. Patient’s medical history includes a coronary artery bypass surgery 5 years ago. Echocardiography and computed tomography angiography showed a giant right coronary artery aneurysm compressing the superior vena cava. Due to hemodynamic deterioration, emergent cardiac surgery was performed to alleviate the compression, and veno-arterial extracorporal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) was necessary during intensive care unit. Hemodynamic improvement over 6 days allowed for successful ECMO weaning and eventually patient’s discharge.