Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026
23:33
The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
84.8K
Cardiac Vignette: Giant Left Atrial Appendage Aneurysm
Gary C H Gan1, Aditya Bhat1, Himanshu Desai1
1Department of Cardiology, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Heart, Lung & Circulation
|March 18, 2015
Summary
Giant left atrial appendage (LAA), a rare condition causing chest pain, can lead to serious cardiac events. This case explores its diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a remnant cardiac structure.
- Pathological aneurysmal enlargement of the LAA can cause myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, and thromboembolism.
- Giant LAA is a rare, often isolated condition.
Observation:
- A middle-aged female presented with chest pain attributed to a giant left atrial appendage.
- The case highlights the diagnostic challenges and clinical presentation of this rare condition.
Findings:
- This cardiac vignette details a rare case of giant left atrial appendage.
- It explores the natural history, diagnostic modalities, and clinical management strategies.
Implications:
- Understanding giant LAA is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective patient management.
- Further research may elucidate optimal treatment pathways for this rare cardiac anomaly.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
632
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
632
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
1.0K
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
1.0K
01:15Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
1.4K
IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
1.4K
01:26Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
463
Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...
463
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
1.6K
Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
1.6K
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
554
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
554