Ventricular septal defect complicating delayed presentation of acute myocardial infarction during COVID-19 lockdown:

Matthew C Evans1, Daniel H Steinberg1, John F Rhodes1

  • 1Division of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, 30 Courtenay Drive, 326/MSC 592, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.

Insights

Post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are rare but deadly. Transcatheter repair offers a safe and effective alternative to surgery for these complex cases.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Cardiac Surgery

Background:

  • Post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are rare complications.
  • These defects are associated with high morbidity and mortality.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic may increase their incidence due to delayed acute coronary syndrome management.

Observation:

  • A 37-year-old male with coronary artery disease risk factors presented with chest discomfort and heart failure symptoms.
  • Echocardiography revealed a large muscular VSD.
  • Coronary angiography confirmed an anterior wall infarction.

Findings:

  • Transcatheter VSD repair was successfully performed.
  • The patient showed rapid clinical improvement post-procedure.

Implications:

  • Transcatheter VSD repair is a safe and effective alternative to surgical repair.
  • This approach can improve outcomes for patients with post-infarction VSDs.
  • Early intervention is crucial for managing mechanical complications of myocardial infarction.
Abstract

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