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Varix of the heart
J P Remadi1, A BenAmar, O Baron
1Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Unit, Amiens Hospital, France.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|July 24, 2001
Summary
A rare cardiac varix, a vascular malformation, was unexpectedly discovered in the right atrium of a 76-year-old patient. This asymptomatic heart mass required surgical resection, revealing a benign vascular anomaly.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Primary cardiac tumors are rare, with most being benign.
- Asymptomatic cardiac masses often require thorough investigation.
- Preanesthetic evaluations can reveal unexpected cardiac findings.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old male presented for prostate adenoma surgery.
- An asymptomatic right atrial mass was detected during preanesthetic cardiac evaluation.
- A 3/6 systolic murmur was noted on cardiac auscultation.
Findings:
- Surgical resection of the right atrial mass was performed.
- Histological examination revealed the mass to be a cardiac varix.
- The postoperative recovery was uneventful.
Implications:
- Cardiac varices are rare benign vascular malformations that can mimic cardiac tumors.
- Early detection and surgical management are crucial for asymptomatic cardiac masses.
- This case highlights the importance of comprehensive cardiac evaluation, even in asymptomatic individuals.