Trying to Survive A Serious Heart Condition in Time of COVID-19

Josip Varvodic1, Verica Mikecin2, Irzal Hadzibegovic3

  • 1Department of Cardiac and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb, Croatia.

Insights

COVID-19 infection delayed critical treatment for severe infective endocarditis. Emergent surgery was ultimately required, leading to a successful patient recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges in managing non-COVID-19 critical illnesses.
  • Patients with life-threatening conditions require timely diagnosis and treatment, irrespective of concurrent infections.

Observation:

  • A 36-year-old patient presented with severe infective endocarditis and a large aortic root abscess.
  • The patient was concurrently positive for COVID-19, complicating initial management.
  • Diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for endocarditis were deferred due to the COVID-19 diagnosis.

Findings:

  • Delayed management of infective endocarditis led to acute cardiac decompensation.
  • The patient developed symptoms of heart failure necessitating urgent surgical intervention.
  • Post-operative recovery following emergent surgery was uneventful.

Implications:

  • Concurrent COVID-19 infection can significantly impede the management of other severe diseases.
  • Multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial for optimizing care in complex cases.
  • Prompt surgical intervention remains vital for severe infective endocarditis, even with concurrent viral infections.

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