Risk factors associated with saphenous vein graft aneurysm after coronary artery bypass graft

INTRODUCTION: Saphenous vein graft aneurysm (SVGA) is a rare but life-threatening complication following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The authors aim to identify the potential risk factors that lead to SVGA in post-CABG patients. METHODS: A systematic review of original studies, observational studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case studies, and case series was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and Google Scholar involving adult patients (>18) with SVGA after CABG using MESH terminology in a broad search strategy. All searches were performed and analyzed according to PRISMA and duplicates were removed via Rayyan. Two independent investigators extracted and assessed the data involving demographics, and baseline data related to CABG and its manifestations. RESULTS: Out of 487 finalized articles, 14 of them matched the inclusion requirements and reported 12 cases of SVGAs following CABG. Atherosclerosis with intimal calcification was the most common risk factor followed by infection. Others included hyperlipidemia, pneumonia, and cardiac pathologies mostly related to the ventricles and valves. CONCLUSION: Atherosclerosis associated with intimal calcification is the most common risk factor. Patient outcomes seem to improve upon early identification and regular follow-up imaging. The exclusion criteria indicated the study’s limits, and future studies that address these constraints may be able to better understand the risk variables involved in the genesis of SVGA.