Aorto-left atrial fistula diagnosed with computed tomographic angiography: A case report

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Nicholas Voutsinas1, Aalap Chokshi2, Michael Chung1

  • 1Department of Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Clinical Imaging
|April 25, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Aorto-atrial fistulas are rare but can cause heart failure. CT angiography offers better visualization of these defects compared to echocardiography alone.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Aorto-atrial fistulas are uncommon cardiac abnormalities.
  • Diagnosis is often limited to echocardiography.
  • CT angiography enhances visualization of cardiac defects.

Observation:

  • A 76-year-old male presented with decompensated heart failure.
  • The patient had a history of bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement.
  • A fistula between the aorta and left atrium was identified.

Findings:

  • The patient's heart failure was secondary to an aorto-atrial fistula.
  • CT angiography provided detailed anatomic visibility of the fistula.
  • This case highlights a rare complication post-valve replacement.

Implications:

  • CT angiography is a valuable tool for diagnosing aorto-atrial fistulas.
  • Early detection and diagnosis are crucial for managing heart failure.
  • Understanding rare cardiac complications improves patient outcomes.

Keywords:
AortaCT angiographyCardiac CTFistulaLeft atriumValve replacement

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