Spontaneous coronary artery dissection

Kareem Salhiyyah1, Haitham Abunasra, Salman Waqar

  • 1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK. kareemsal@doctors.org.uk

Insights

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare cause of heart attack, often diagnosed late. This study highlights successful surgical treatment for SCAD in two patients, emphasizing timely intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an uncommon yet critical cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
  • SCAD diagnosis is frequently delayed, often occurring post-mortem.
  • Key risk factors include the peripartum state, oral contraceptive use, and underlying atherosclerotic disease.

Observation:

  • SCAD should be suspected in young, healthy individuals presenting with acute myocardial ischemic syndrome.
  • Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial due to the risk of sudden cardiac death associated with SCAD.
  • This report details two cases of SCAD in patients presenting with acute ischemic symptoms.

Findings:

  • Both SCAD cases were successfully managed with emergency coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
  • The first case utilized both left internal mammary artery (LIMA) and radial artery grafts.
  • The second case involved LIMA grafting exclusively.

Implications:

  • Emergency CABG is a viable and effective treatment strategy for SCAD.
  • Successful surgical revascularization can prevent adverse outcomes in SCAD patients.
  • Increased clinical awareness and timely diagnosis are essential for improving SCAD patient management.

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