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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Identifying Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-gated Computed Tomography Scans
Published on: August 28, 2018
Identifying the course of a coronary-bronchial artery fistula using contrast-enhanced multi-detector row computed
Insights
A rare coronary artery fistula connecting to the bronchial artery was identified. Contrast-enhanced MDCT confirmed this rare coronary-bronchial artery fistula with bronchiectasis, aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Radiology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Coronary artery fistulas (CAFs) are uncommon abnormal connections between a coronary artery and a cardiac chamber or great vessel.
- Conventional coronary angiography can sometimes fail to delineate the precise course and drainage of CAFs, leading to diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A rare case of a coronary artery fistula was observed.
- The fistula was identified as a connection between a coronary artery and the bronchial artery.
Findings:
- Contrast-enhanced multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) successfully visualized the rare coronary-bronchial artery fistula.
- The MDCT also confirmed the presence of bronchiectasis in the affected lung region.
Implications:
- Contrast-enhanced MDCT offers superior anatomical detail for diagnosing complex coronary artery fistulas compared to conventional angiography.
- Accurate diagnosis of coronary-bronchial artery fistula is crucial for appropriate management and preventing complications such as pulmonary hemorrhage.
Abstract:
Although coronary artery fistula is common, sometimes, it is difficult to identify its course, the relationship to surrounding structures and site of drainage by coronary angiography resulting in misinterpretation. We reported a rare case who had a coronary-bronchial artery fistula with bronchiectasis confirmed by contrast-enhanced MDCT.
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