Beyond Ortner's syndrome--unusual pulmonary complications of the giant left atrium
1Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore. gheech@singnet.com.sg
Introduction:
The giant left atrium (GLA) is a complication of severe mitral valve disease and causes morbidity by compressing adjacent intra-thoracic structures.
Clinical Picture:
We report 2 cases of unusual pulmonary complications of the GLA. Case 1 developed recurrent collapse of the left lung due to left main bronchus compression. Case 2 was diagnosed with right middle lobe compression and collapse.
Treatment And Outcome:
Case 1 was successfully treated by mitral valve replacement and left atrial reduction surgery. Case 2 was treated conservatively.
Conclusion:
Pulmonary atelectasis may occur in patients with GLA due to bronchopulmonary compression. Surgical management with valve replacement and atrial reduction may be necessary to relieve airway compression.
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