Aortic Balloon Used in a Cardiac Reoperation of a Patient with Patent Coronary Grafts

Abstract

Reoperation in patients with patent coronary artery bypass grafts behind the sternum is associated with a high risk of graft injury that may be life-threatening. We recently performed mitral valve replacement in a patient with patent coronary artery bypass grafts and grade IV mitral regurgitation. Surgery was safely performed with minimal adhesion dissection and modified Port-Access Technique using an aortic balloon.