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Author Spotlight: Enhancing Coronary Artery Revascularization
Published on: September 15, 2023
Stealing from the Heart: A Rare Case of Chest Pain Post-Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Prasanti A Kotta1, Joshua R Hirsch1, Umair Khalid1
1Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, US.
Insights
Coronary subclavian steal syndrome (CSSS) can cause exertional chest pain in patients with prior bypass surgery. Prompt diagnosis and carotid-subclavian bypass are crucial for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a common procedure for coronary artery disease.
- Subclavian artery stenosis can compromise graft patency and present with atypical symptoms.
Observation:
- A 70-year-old veteran with prior CABG experienced exertional chest pain.
- A significant bilateral upper extremity blood pressure difference (>40 mm Hg) was noted.
- Severe left subclavian artery ostial stenosis was identified, proximal to the LIMA-LAD graft.
Findings:
- Diagnosis of coronary subclavian steal syndrome (CSSS) was established.
- Successful carotid-subclavian bypass was performed to restore flow.
- The case highlights the importance of recognizing CSSS in post-CABG patients.
Implications:
- Early suspicion of CSSS is vital in patients with relevant history and symptoms.
- Multimodal imaging (CT, angiography) aids in diagnosis.
- Timely surgical intervention can effectively manage CSSS and improve patient outcomes.
Abstract:
A 70-year-old veteran with prior triple vessel coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) presented with exertional chest pain. His work-up revealed > 40 mm Hg bilateral upper extremity blood pressure difference. Chest computed tomography and invasive angiography revealed severe stenosis at the ostium of the left subclavian artery, proximal to the origin of the left internal mammary artery to left anterior descending artery graft (LIMA-LAD). A diagnosis of coronary subclavian steal syndrome (CSSS) was made, and carotid-subclavian bypass was performed. This case outlines when to suspect CSSS, an approach to its diagnosis, and the importance of its timely management.
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