Young athlete with sudden cardiac arrest treated with therapeutic hypothermia

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Congenital Heart Disease
• Sports Cardiology

Background:

• Congenital coronary artery anomalies are rare but can cause significant cardiovascular events.
• Adolescent athletes are a unique population where cardiac screening is crucial for early detection.

Observation:

• A young adolescent athlete experienced sudden cardiopulmonary arrest.
• Diagnostic imaging revealed an anomalous left main coronary artery originating from the right coronary sinus.
• The anomalous vessel coursed between the aorta and pulmonary artery, a high-risk anatomical configuration.

Findings:

• The patient was successfully resuscitated and received therapeutic hypothermia.
• No neurological complications were noted during follow-up.
• Surgical intervention with coronary artery bypass grafting was performed to address the anomaly.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering rare coronary anomalies in young athletes presenting with cardiac arrest.
• Prompt diagnosis and surgical management are critical for preventing adverse outcomes.
• Coronary artery bypass grafting can effectively treat this specific anomaly, ensuring long-term athlete safety.