Transapical extirpation of a left ventricular thrombus in Takotsubo cardiomyopathy
Ryo Suzuki1, Tomoaki Kudo, Hiroshi Kurazumi
1Department of Surgery and Clinical Science, Division of Cardiac Surgery, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Minami-Kogushi, Ube, Yamaguchi 755-8505, Japan.
Insights
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy can cause left ventricular thrombus, a rare complication. Mobile thrombi in these patients pose a significant risk of thromboembolism, necessitating prompt intervention.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC), also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy, is characterized by transient left ventricular dysfunction.
- While typically presenting with ST-segment elevation mimicking myocardial infarction, coronary angiography often reveals unobstructed coronary arteries.
Observation:
- A 58-year-old Japanese female presented with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome.
- Initial investigations including electrocardiogram (ECG) showed ST elevation, but coronary angiography revealed normal coronary arteries.
- The patient was diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and a concomitant left ventricular thrombus.
Findings:
- Despite anticoagulation therapy, the left ventricular thrombus demonstrated increased mobility and protrusion.
- Surgical intervention via a trans-apical approach was performed to extirpate the left ventricular thrombus.
- This case highlights the potential for thrombus formation and complications in Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
Implications:
- Left ventricular thrombus formation is an uncommon but serious complication of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
- Mobile and protruding left ventricular thrombi in TTC patients represent a high risk for thromboembolic events.
- Early recognition and management, potentially including surgical removal, are crucial for improving outcomes in such cases.
Abstract:
A 58-year-old Japanese female was referred to our hospital. Although the electrocardiogram showed ST elevation, coronary angiography showed intact coronary artery. We diagnosed Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and a left ventricular thrombus. Anticoagulation was administered; however, the left ventricular thrombus had become mobile and protrusive. We extirpated the left ventricular thrombus via trans-apical approach. Left ventricular thrombus is rare in Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, but these patients are at a higher risk of thromboembolism, especially if the thrombi are mobile and protruding.
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