Methods Between January 2020 and August 2022 n=14 patients underwent left ventricular reconstruction at our institution. In six cases myocardial infarction had happened within the last three months (42%). The mean preoperative ejection fraction was 39 ±12 %.

Results In most cases a bovine pericardial patch was used to resect and reinforce the thinned aneurysm wall (78%). In n=2 cases intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) support was perioperatively required, in n=1 case preoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy was needed. Two patients presented with a ventricular septum defect which was closed concomitantly. Mean length of intensive care unit stay was 5 ± 5 days and mean length of hospital stay was 15 ± 6 days. Thirty day all-cause mortality was 7,1%. Postoperative dialysis was required in one case, one patient presented with a postoperative pneumothorax. Mean postoperative ejection fraction was 46 ±6 % which showed an increase in all but 3 cases. In two patients, a postoperatively remaining thrombus was detected in an echocardiograph.  

Conclusion This study shows that post infarction aneurysm can be treated successfully with a left ventricular reconstruction as shown by a low postoperative complication rate and an increase in postoperative ejection fraction in most patients. In addition, the relatively low mortality rate shows that it is feasible and safe when performed in high volume centers by senior surgeons. Patients with a post infarction aneurysm should therefore be evaluated for surgery early on in order to prevent heart failure to progress any further.