Aortic cusp perforation during rotational atherectomy: a case report

Rotational atherectomy has become increasingly utilised over the past decade. Although a relatively safe procedure in appropriately trained physicians' hands, there are a number of recognised complications.

We describe the case of a 64-year-old female who presented with chest pain and was diagnosed with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome. A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed normal biventricular function and no valve disease. Invasive coronary angiogram was performed which revealed a severely calcified ostial right coronary artery (RCA) disease which was felt to be the culprit of the presentation. Balloon dilatation was unsuccessful, therefore, rotational atherectomy with an Amplatz left 0.75 guide and a 1.5 mm rota-burr was utilised and improved calcium burden. This was complicated by ostial dissection, treated with stenting. A TTE following the procedure revealed moderate aortic regurgitation (AR). The patient was discharged as she remained asymptomatic. An outpatient transoesophageal echocardiogram performed eight months later showed evidence of severe eccentric AR. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging confirmed severe AR with left ventricular dilatation. Repeat angiogram 10 months after index procedure revealed in-stent restenosis, and the patient was accepted by heart multidisciplinary team for aortic valve replacement and grafting of RCA.

As the field of rotational atherectomy continues to expand, we propose that novel complications such as reported in this case may become recognised. Finally, we stress the importance of multi-modality imaging in the investigation and timely planning of interventions in the management of these patients.