Anomalous coronary artery in a transplanted heart: a rare incidental diagnosis
Muaz M Abudiab1, Fayaz A Hakim1, David F Fortuin1
1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ United States.
Insights
A rare coronary artery anomaly was found after a heart transplant. This case involved an anomalous right coronary artery in an asymptomatic patient, highlighting that while often benign, some anomalies may require intervention.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Transplant Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Coronary artery anomalies are uncommon findings in heart transplant recipients.
- Postoperative coronary angiography is crucial for identifying such anomalies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of anomalous origin of the right coronary artery in a heart transplant recipient.
- To discuss the clinical significance and management of coronary artery anomalies in this population.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 70-year-old asymptomatic heart transplant patient.
- Coronary angiography was performed postoperatively.
Main Results:
- An anomalous origin of the right coronary artery was identified.
- The patient remained asymptomatic.
Conclusions:
- Coronary artery anomalies can occur in heart transplant recipients.
- While often benign, major anomalies may necessitate surgical intervention due to potential adverse outcomes.
Abstract:
Coronary artery anomaly is a rare postoperative coronary angiographic finding in heart transplant recipients. We report a case of anomalous origin of the right coronary artery in an asymptomatic 70-year-old heart transplant patient. Most coronary artery anomalies are benign, but surgical treatment may be necessary in major coronary artery anomalies that are known to have adverse outcomes.
