Related Experiment Video

Updated: Apr 11, 2026

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection
06:26

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection

Published on: March 28, 2025

1.3K

Rupture of massive coronary artery aneurysm resulting in cardiac tamponade

Takeshi Kondo1, Motonori Takahashi1, Kanako Nakagawa1

  • 1Division of Legal Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Social Health Science, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.

Legal Medicine (Tokyo, Japan)
|June 7, 2015
PubMed

Insights

A massive coronary artery aneurysm ruptured, causing cardiac tamponade and death in a middle-aged man. This rare case highlights the severe consequences of atherosclerotic coronary artery aneurysms.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Coronary artery aneurysms are rare dilatations exceeding 1.5 times normal artery width.
  • Rupture of these aneurysms can lead to life-threatening complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a fatal case of a ruptured massive coronary artery aneurysm.
  • To describe the pathological findings and cause of death.

Main Methods:

  • Autopsy and histological examination of a deceased middle-aged male.
  • Analysis of pericardial blood, coronary arteries, aorta, and heart.

Main Results:

  • Two true aneurysms of the right coronary artery were identified; one ruptured, causing 270mL hemopericardium.
  • Severe atherosclerosis was noted in the coronary arteries and aorta.
  • The cause of death was cardiac tamponade due to the ruptured atherosclerotic aneurysm.

Conclusions:

  • Rupture of giant coronary atherosclerotic aneurysms can be rapidly fatal.
  • Atherosclerosis is a key underlying pathology in these aneurysms.
  • This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing coronary artery aneurysms.

Keywords:
Cardiac tamponadeCoronary artery aneurysmRupture

More Related Videos

Modified Octopus Technique for Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm04:56

Modified Octopus Technique for Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Published on: August 1, 2025

656
Left Coronary Artery Ligation: A Surgical Murine Model of Myocardial Infarction05:48

Left Coronary Artery Ligation: A Surgical Murine Model of Myocardial Infarction

Published on: August 9, 2022

5.7K

Related Concept Videos

Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations01:19

Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
783
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

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...
546
Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations01:30

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
585
Introduction Cardiac Emergencies01:30

Introduction Cardiac Emergencies

Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
525
Aneurysm I: Introduction01:30

Aneurysm I: Introduction

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...
626
Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction01:30

Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) encompasses a spectrum of heart conditions caused by sudden obstruction of coronary arteries, typically resulting from the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque and subsequent thrombus (blood clot) formation. This obstruction can lead to partial or complete blockage of blood flow, causing varying degrees of myocardial ischemia or infarction.ACS includes the following clinical entities:Unstable Angina (UA)Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)ST-Elevation...
1.8K