The benefit of early repair for a mycotic aortic aneurysm due to Yersinia enterocolitica infection

Mycotic aortic aneurysms are infrequent but challenging cases. We present a 68-year-old man with evolving infrarenal aortic and right common iliac artery aneurysms from an infection with Yersinia enterocolitica. This is a rare but virulent cause of aortitis. The patient underwent open resection and debridement with anatomic reconstruction using an aortic homograft. He recovered well and quickly returned to normal functional status. This represents the first successful anatomic aortic repair using homograft with this organism. Here, we review the literature and outcomes associated with this unusual pathogen. With favorable anatomy and expedient operative management, good results can be obtained.