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Saddle embolism of aorta.
S B Siwach1, R K Yadav, J P Singh
1Department of Medicine, Medical College, Rohtak, Haryana.
The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Aortic saddle embolus, a rare complication of myocardial infarction, can lead to limb-threatening ischemia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this serious condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Aortic saddle embolism is a rare but severe complication in patients with myocardial infarction.
- It involves the blockage of arteries by blood clots originating from the aorta.
Observation:
- This report details four cases of aortic saddle embolism with peripheral clot propagation.
- Patient histories included recent or past myocardial infarction and dilated cardiomyopathy.
- Symptoms varied from sudden onset with pain and pulselessness to gradual onset and intermittent claudication.
Findings:
- Two female patients developed below-knee gangrene in one limb due to clot migration.
- A young male with bilateral popliteal artery embolism experienced leg angina but avoided gangrene.
- Delayed presentation in all patients precluded embolectomy.
Implications:
- Aortic saddle embolism requires urgent recognition and management to prevent limb loss.
- Understanding risk factors like myocardial infarction is key for early detection.
- Late presentation significantly impacts treatment options, highlighting the need for timely medical attention.