Surgical treatment of left main coronary artery aneurysm: a case report
Tzu-Yu Lin1, Kuan-Ming Chiu, Jiann-Shing Shieh
1Department of Anesthesia, Far-Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
Insights
Left main coronary artery aneurysms are rare, often linked to atherosclerosis. While not increasing risk with existing blockages, these aneurysms pose dangers like thrombosis and embolization, warranting aggressive surgical consideration.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Left main (LM) coronary artery aneurysms are uncommon findings during coronary angiography.
- Atherosclerosis is the predominant cause, excluding rare conditions like Kawasaki disease, iatrogenic, or mycotic aneurysms.
Observation:
- The case involves a 65-year-old male presenting with effort angina.
- Coronary angiography revealed a left main coronary artery aneurysm.
- Diagnostic imaging included computed tomography, transesophageal echocardiography, and operative photography.
Findings:
- LM coronary artery aneurysm often coexists with coronary artery disease.
- While not adding risk to existing obstructive coronary artery disease, LM aneurysms present significant clinical concerns.
- Thrombosis and distal embolization are the primary risks associated with LM coronary aneurysms.
Implications:
- LM coronary artery aneurysms require careful clinical consideration due to potential morbidities.
- Aggressive surgical intervention is recommended for managing these aneurysms.
- This case highlights the diagnostic and imaging modalities used for LM coronary aneurysms.
Abstract:
Left main (LM) coronary artery aneurysm is rare and usually found incidentally during coronary angiography. Except for rare Kawasaki disease, iatrogenic and mycotic aneurysms, atherosclerosis is the primary cause of coronary aneurysm. In most clinical scenarios, coronary artery disease is accompanied with LM coronary aneurysm. Although coronary artery aneurysm does not confer added risk in patients with coexisting obstructive coronary artery disease, LM coronary aneurysm itself remains a significant clinical concern. Thrombosis and distal embolization are the most likely reasons to cause morbidities. Aggressive surgical treatment should be considered. Here, we report a 65-year-old man presenting with effort angina. LM coronary aneurysm was noted in coronary angiogram and images including computed tomography, transesophageal echocardiography and operative photography were presented.
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