An isolated mid-anterolateral wall true ventricular aneurysm due to coronary artery disease
M Scott Binder1, Eric Williams1, Ido Heletz1
1Department of Cardiology, Virginia Tech Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, Roanoke, USA.
Insights
This study highlights a rare left ventricular (LV) aneurysm in the mid-anterolateral wall following myocardial infarction. It emphasizes echocardiography for diagnosis and differentiating LV aneurysms from pseudoaneurysms, using contrast and thrombus exclusion protocols.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Echocardiography
Background:
- Left ventricular (LV) aneurysms typically occur in apical segments post-myocardial infarction.
- A rare case of an isolated mid-anterolateral wall LV aneurysm caused by diagonal branch occlusion is presented.
Approach:
- Review of echocardiographic criteria for diagnosing LV aneurysms.
- Discussion on differentiating LV aneurysms from pseudoaneurysms.
- Demonstration of ultrasound contrast agents for improved visualization.
- Outline of imaging protocols to exclude LV thrombus.
Key Points:
- Isolated mid-anterolateral LV aneurysm is a rare finding.
- Echocardiography is crucial for accurate diagnosis and differentiation from pseudoaneurysms.
- Ultrasound contrast and specific imaging protocols aid in comprehensive evaluation.
Conclusions:
- This case expands the understanding of LV aneurysm locations and etiologies.
- Standard echocardiographic techniques, enhanced with contrast, are effective for diagnosing and managing LV aneurysms and associated thrombi.
Abstract:
Aneurysms following a myocardial infarction usually involve the apical wall segments. We present a case of a rare isolated mid-anterolateral wall aneurysm due to occlusion of a diagonal branch. We review the echocardiographic criteria for diagnosing a left ventricular (LV) aneurysm and discuss how to differentiate one from a more critical pseudoaneurysm. We demonstrate the utility of using ultrasound enhancing contrast and review imaging protocols for ruling out associated LV thrombus.
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