Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026

Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): An Intervention Sequence
Published on: December 23, 2022
Iatrogenic ST elevation during percutaneous closure of a coronary artery fistula
Nicholas Collins1, Lee N Benson, Eric M Horlick
1Toronto Congenital Cardiac Centre for Adults, Department of Cardiology, University Health Network/Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. nicholas.collins@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au
Insights
This study details a rare electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormality during coronary artery fistula closure using detachable coils. The findings highlight a unique procedural complication without actual coronary artery injury.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Coronary artery fistulae are uncommon congenital or acquired abnormalities.
- Transcatheter closure is a common interventional therapy for symptomatic fistulae.
- Detachable coils are frequently used for fistula occlusion.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing percutaneous closure of a left anterior descending coronary artery to pulmonary artery fistula experienced chest discomfort and anterior ST segment elevation.
- This ECG abnormality occurred during coil delivery for fistula occlusion.
Findings:
- The study demonstrates a unique and striking ECG abnormality during coil-based coronary artery fistula closure.
- The observed changes were not associated with coronary artery injury.
- Mechanisms for the procedural ECG changes are discussed.
Implications:
- Understanding this rare ECG manifestation is crucial for interventional cardiologists.
- It aids in differentiating procedural artifact from acute coronary syndromes.
- This knowledge can guide appropriate patient management during fistula interventions.
Abstract:
Coronary artery fistulae are an uncommon anomaly and, while frequently asymptomatic, may require interventional therapy. Transcatheter approaches for closure of coronary artery fistulae are now commonly used, with various methods of fistula occlusion described, including detachable coils. During a percutaneous procedure to occlude a symptomatic left anterior descending coronary artery to pulmonary artery fistula, the patient experienced chest discomfort with anterior ST segment elevation. We demonstrate an unusual, unique and striking ECG abnormality complicating the delivery of coils designed to occlude the fistula in the absence of coronary artery injury. The mechanisms of the procedural ECG changes are discussed, as are potential alternate diagnoses and associated therapy.
Related Concept Videos
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
Cardiac Catheterization I: Pre-Procedure Overview
Cardiac Catheterization II: Right Heart Catheterization
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization
