Isolated single coronary artery: a review of 50,000 consecutive coronary angiographies
W Desmet1, J Vanhaecke, M Vrolix
1Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium.
Insights
Single coronary artery, a rare congenital anomaly, occurs when one artery supplies the entire heart. This study found its incidence to be 0.066% in adult patients undergoing coronary angiography.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Congenital Anomalies
- Vascular Anatomy
Background:
- Single coronary artery (SCA) is a rare congenital anomaly.
- It involves a single coronary artery originating from the aorta supplying the entire heart.
- Understanding its incidence and anatomical variations is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of single coronary artery in adult patients.
- To classify the anatomical types of SCA identified.
- To discuss the clinical and pathological significance of SCA.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 50,000 coronary angiographies performed between 1973 and 1991.
- Identification of cases diagnosed with single coronary artery.
- Review and anatomical classification of all identified SCA cases.
Main Results:
- Thirty-three cases of single coronary artery were identified.
- The overall incidence of SCA was determined to be 0.066%.
- Patient characteristics and clinical data were analyzed, and anatomical types were classified.
Conclusions:
- Single coronary artery is a rare finding with a low incidence.
- Further characterization of patient data and anatomical variations is important.
- The pathological implications of SCA warrant continued investigation.
Abstract:
Single coronary artery is a rare congenital anomaly of the coronary arteries where only one coronary artery arises from the aortic trunk by a single coronary ostium, supplying the entire heart. A database consisting of the angiographic reports of 50,000 consecutive coronary angiographies performed in adult patients in the University Hospital of Leuven between March 1973 and August 1991 was searched for the diagnosis of single coronary artery. All films concerned were reviewed and classified according to their anatomical type. Thirty-three cases of single coronary artery were retrieved, yielding an incidence of 0.066%. Patient characteristics and clinical data are described, with a discussion on the pathological importance of this finding.
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