Early surgical intervention for unusually located cardiac fibroelastomas
Eui Suk Chung1, Jae Hoon Lee1, Jong Kwon Seo2
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Yeungnam University Journal of Medicine
|August 8, 2020
Summary
Papillary fibroelastomas are common cardiac tumors, often on valves. Prompt surgical removal is advised for high-embolism risk patients, utilizing techniques that preserve valve function.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Cardiac Surgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Papillary fibroelastomas are the second most common primary cardiac tumors in adults.
- These tumors predominantly affect cardiac valves, particularly on the left side, but can also occur in atria and ventricles.
Observation:
- Over 80% of papillary fibroelastomas are found on cardiac valves.
- Lesions can also be found scattered throughout the atria and ventricles.
Findings:
- Surgical resection is recommended for patients with a high risk of embolism.
- The slicing excision technique allows for tumor removal from cardiac valves without causing leaflet injury.
Implications:
- Optimal surgical timing for papillary fibroelastomas remains debated, influenced by tumor size and location.
- This study presents two cases of papillary fibroelastomas on the aortic valve and right ventricle, highlighting the importance of prompt surgical intervention.


