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Persistent left superior vena cava causing subdivided left atrium: diagnosis, embryological implications, and
R J Ascuitto1, N T Ross-Ascuitto, G S Kopf
1Section of Pediatric Cardiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|November 1, 1987
Summary
A rare congenital heart defect, persistent left superior vena cava, caused a subdivided left atrium and congestive heart failure in an infant. This previously unreported anomaly required surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
Background:
- Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is a rare congenital anomaly.
- It typically drains into the left atrium or coronary sinus.
- PLSVC can be associated with other cardiac defects.
Observation:
- A 3-month-old infant presented with symptoms of congestive heart failure.
- Imaging revealed a persistent left superior vena cava.
- The anomaly impinged on the posterior wall of the left atrium.
Findings:
- The impingement led to a subdivided left atrium.
- This resulted in a left-to-right shunt.
- The infant experienced significant congestive heart failure due to the shunt.
Implications:
- This specific presentation of PLSVC causing left atrial subdivision and shunt is previously unreported.
- Accurate preoperative diagnosis is crucial for effective surgical management.
- Understanding embryological origins aids in recognizing and managing similar anomalies.