Traumatic right coronary arterial-right atrial fistula
The American Journal of Cardiology
|March 1, 1975
Summary
Penetrating thoracic injuries can lead to coronary artery fistulas, a delayed complication. A machinery murmur may indicate fistula enlargement weeks to months after the initial injury.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Diagnostic Cardiology
Background:
- Penetrating thoracic injuries can cause significant cardiovascular damage.
- Coronary artery fistulas are rare but serious complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of coronary artery fistula following penetrating thoracic injury.
- To highlight fistula formation as a late complication of thoracic trauma.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 25-year-old male with a machinery murmur.
- Hemodynamic and angiographic evaluation to diagnose the fistula.
- Surgical repair of the right coronary artery to right atrium fistula.
Main Results:
- A fistula between the right coronary artery and right atrium was identified.
- The fistula was successfully repaired.
- The machinery murmur was attributed to fistula enlargement.
Conclusions:
- Fistula formation is a recognized late complication of penetrating thoracic injuries.
- A new murmur, particularly a machinery murmur, warrants investigation for fistula in patients with prior thoracic trauma.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
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