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[Thrombus in the left atrium -- is it always treated properly?]
Hanna Bachórzewska-Gajewska1, Aleksandra Serwicka, Bozena Sobkowicz
1Zakład Kardiologii Inwazyjnej, Samodzielny Publiczny Szpital Kliniczny AM, ul. M. Skłodowskiej-Curie 24a, 15-276 Białystok.
Kardiologia Polska
|April 4, 2006
Summary
A large calcified mass, identified as a thrombus, was found in the left atrium of a 61-year-old female with mitral stenosis and atrial fibrillation. This case highlights the importance of anticoagulation in managing such cardiac conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- A 61-year-old female presented with a history of stroke, mitral stenosis, and atrial fibrillation.
- The patient underwent mitral commissurotomy eight years after initial diagnosis.
Observation:
- Preoperative chest X-ray revealed a large calcified mass within the left atrium.
- During mitral valve replacement surgery, this mass was surgically removed.
Findings:
- The excised mass was pathologically identified as a calcified thrombus.
- Anticoagulation therapy was initiated only shortly before the surgical procedure, despite significant risk factors.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for significant thrombus formation in patients with mitral stenosis and atrial fibrillation.
- Timely and appropriate anticoagulation is crucial for preventing thromboembolic events in patients with these cardiac conditions.