Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection
06:26

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection

Published on: March 28, 2025

[Aortic dissection after aortic valve replacement with an aorto-left atrial fistula; report of a case]

H Kanamitsu1, H Minami, H Yoshitaka

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Sakakibara Heart Institute of Okayama, Okayama, Japan.

Kyobu Geka. the Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery
|July 11, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Aortocameral fistula, a rare complication following aortic valve replacement (AVR), can form between the aorta and the left atrium. Postoperative adhesions may play a key role in its development.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Cardiac Surgery
  • Aortic Aneurysm

Background:

  • Aortocameral fistula is a rare but serious complication of aortic dissection.
  • Aortic dissection following aortic valve replacement (AVR) is uncommon.
  • This case highlights a specific instance of this complication.

Observation:

  • A 76-year-old male presented with facial edema and chest discomfort one year post-AVR.
  • A continuous murmur was detected on auscultation.
  • Computed tomography and transesophageal echocardiography revealed a fistula between the ascending aorta's false lumen and the left atrium.

Findings:

  • The patient had a dissecting aneurysm of the ascending aorta.
  • A fistula directly connecting the aorta to the left atrium was confirmed.
  • Surgical intervention included ascending aorta replacement and fistula closure.

Implications:

  • Postoperative adhesions between the aortic root and the left atrium were noted.
  • These adhesions are hypothesized to be a significant factor in aortocameral fistula formation.
  • Understanding this mechanism is crucial for preventing and managing this complication.

More Related Videos

Technical Aspects of the Mouse Aortocaval Fistula06:12

Technical Aspects of the Mouse Aortocaval Fistula

Published on: July 11, 2013

Standardized Technique of Aortic Valve Re-implantation for Valve-sparing Aortic Root Replacement14:14

Standardized Technique of Aortic Valve Re-implantation for Valve-sparing Aortic Root Replacement

Published on: December 11, 2017

Related Concept Videos

Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction01:15

Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction

IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:22

Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care01:26

Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...
Aneurysm I: Introduction01:30

Aneurysm I: Introduction

An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...