Treatment of a mycotic descending thoracic aortic aneurysm using endovascular stent-graft placement and rifampin infusion with postoperative aspiration of the aneurysm sac

Abstract

Purpose: Mycotic aortic aneurysms are rare but are associated with high morbidity and mortality due to their propensity for rupture. Traditional therapy consists of open surgical repair with resection and aortic reconstruction or extra-anatomic bypass combined with long-term antibiotic therapy.

Case report: An 85-year-old male with persistent bacteremia was found to have a descending mycotic aortic aneurysm. Surgical options were discussed and endovascular treatment was recommended with stent-graft placement followed by intra-aortic rifampin infusion. This approach led to resolution of the aneurysm and eradication of bacteremia at 4-month follow-up.

Conclusion: By combining traditional surgical strategies with a contemporary endovascular approach, the perioperative mortality and long-term risk of infection associated with mycotic thoracic aneurysms can potentially be decreased.