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Ascending aortic aneurysm associated with a quadricuspid aortic valve
Keiichiro Kasama1, Hitoshi Ogino, Hitoshi Matsuda
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, National Cardiovascular Center, 5-7-1 Fujishirodai, Suita, Osaka 565-8565, Japan.
General Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|March 31, 2011
Summary
This rare case highlights a quadricuspid aortic valve in a patient with ascending aortic aneurysm and significant aortic regurgitation. Surgical findings confirmed the unusual valve anatomy, emphasizing its association with aortic disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Ascending aortic aneurysms are serious conditions often requiring surgical intervention.
- Quadricuspid aortic valves are rare congenital anomalies that can lead to aortic valve dysfunction.
- The association between quadricuspid aortic valves and ascending aortic aneurysms is not well-documented.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old male presented with a fusiform ascending aortic aneurysm and severe aortic regurgitation.
- Transthoracic echocardiography confirmed grade III aortic regurgitation.
- Chest computed tomography revealed an ascending aortic aneurysm measuring 48 mm in diameter.
Findings:
- Intraoperative findings revealed a tricuspidalized quadricuspid aortic valve.
- An accessory cusp was identified between the right and left coronary cusps.
- The surgical findings confirmed the rare quadricuspid aortic valve morphology.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing rare aortic valve anomalies in patients with aortic aneurysms.
- Accurate diagnosis and surgical management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Further research may elucidate the specific pathogenetic mechanisms linking quadricuspid aortic valves to ascending aortic aneurysms.
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