Fortune or misfortune: asymptomatic, delayed presentation of complete dehiscence of mechanical aortic valve conduit and pseudoaneurysm.

Complete dehiscence of a composite aortic valve graft with pseudoaneurysm formation is a rare complication following aortic root replacement. This complication often takes place in the setting of acute graft infection and accompanies symptoms of heart failure, valve insufficiency or sepsis. We present a delayed, asymptomatic presentation of this complication in a young man with distant history of aortic root replacement and medically treated prosthetic valve endocarditis a year postoperatively. He had been non-adherent to warfarin over 10 years, but otherwise maintained a healthy life. After being lost to follow-up, he re-presented 12 years after the initial operation with new-onset seizures. Echocardiogram revealed complete dehiscence of a composite valved conduit at the proximal anastomosis site with a resultant large pseudoaneurysm. The patient underwent an urgent re-operation with resection of the pseudoaneurysm and insertion of a tissue valved conduit. He had an uncomplicated postoperative recovery and promised close follow-up on discharge. 2016 BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.