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Updated: Aug 11, 2026
10:28
Assessment of Cocaine-induced Behavioral Sensitization and Conditioned Place Preference in Mice
Published on: February 18, 2016
Cocaine abuse and coronary artery dissection
K E Eskander1, N S Brass, E T Gelfand
1Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Cocaine use can lead to spontaneous coronary artery dissection, affecting major heart arteries. Emergency bypass surgery was successfully performed to treat this rare cardiovascular event.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Toxicology
Background:
- Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare condition.
- Cocaine abuse is an increasingly recognized cause of cardiovascular events.
- Left main coronary artery dissection is particularly dangerous.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old male with recent cocaine use presented with chest pain.
- Imaging revealed dissection of the left main coronary artery extending to the LAD and circumflex arteries.
Findings:
- The patient required emergent four-vessel aortocoronary bypass surgery.
- The surgical procedure was uncomplicated and successful.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical link between cocaine use and SCAD.
- Prompt surgical intervention is vital for managing complex coronary artery dissections.
- Early recognition and treatment can improve outcomes in cocaine-induced cardiovascular emergencies.
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