Delayed traumatic aortic valve perforation after blunt chest trauma

Abstract

Abstract Background Aortic valve perforation is a rare complication of blunt chest trauma. We report a case of delayed aortic insufficiency presenting several months after trauma. Case presentation A 17-year-old male presented to the emergency department with traumatic brain injuries and blunt chest trauma, but no evidence of cardiac injuries. Three months later, he developed acute heart failure due to severe aortic valve regurgitation with left ventricular dysfunction. A sizable tear in the right coronary cusp caused aortic insufficiency. He was treated successfully by surgical replacement with an aortic bioprosthesis. Conclusion We reported a successful surgical case of valve replacement for delayed aortic valve perforation. Delayed valve perforation should be kept in mind after blunt chest trauma.