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Updated: May 26, 2026
09:22
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension and Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in the Piglet
Published on: November 4, 2015
Right ventricular myxoma causing pulmonary outflow tract obstruction
James Pemberton1, Peter Raudkivi
1Green Lane Cardiovascular Services, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand. jpemberton@adhb.govt.nz
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
|December 20, 2011
Summary
A cardiac myxoma, a type of heart tumor, was surgically removed from a patient experiencing shortness of breath and fatigue. This successful excision resolved the obstruction of the pulmonary valve and main pulmonary artery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Cardiac myxomas are the most common primary heart tumors, typically benign.
- Right ventricular myxomas are rare and can cause significant hemodynamic compromise.
- Symptoms often include constitutional signs like weight loss and fatigue, alongside obstructive symptoms.
Observation:
- A patient presented with progressive shortness of breath, lethargy, and unexplained weight loss.
- Diagnostic imaging, including computerized tomography and echocardiogram, revealed a large mass within the right ventricle.
- The mass was observed to obstruct the pulmonary valve during systole and prolapse into the main pulmonary artery.
Findings:
- Surgical excision of the right ventricular mass was performed.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the mass to be a typical myxoma.
- Complete removal of the tumor was achieved.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing symptomatic cardiac myxomas.
- Complete excision typically leads to favorable outcomes and resolution of symptoms.
- This case highlights the importance of considering cardiac tumors in patients with unexplained constitutional symptoms and cardiorespiratory distress.
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