Chiari network entanglement and herniation into the left atrium by an atrial septal defect occluder device

J C Cooke1, J S Gelman, R W Harper

  • 1Centre For Heart and Chest Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Australia.

Insights

The Chiari network, a rare remnant in the heart, can complicate medical procedures. This case highlights transesophageal echocardiography

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Embryology
  • Medical Devices

Background:

  • The Chiari network is a congenital remnant of the right valve of the sinus venosus, found in 2-3% of the population.
  • While generally asymptomatic, it can rarely cause complications like thrombus formation or catheter entrapment.

Observation:

  • A prominent Chiari network herniated into the left atrium.
  • An Amplatzer septal occluder device catheter became entangled within this prominent Chiari network.

Findings:

  • Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was crucial for recognizing the Chiari network before device deployment.
  • TEE guidance enabled successful disentanglement of the catheter from the Chiari network.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of pre-procedural imaging to identify anatomical variations like the Chiari network.
  • Awareness and TEE guidance are vital for managing potential complications during cardiac device implantation.

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