Left Atrial Dissection Induced by Coronary Sinus Catheter-Related Injury

Zhanru Qi1,2, Fang Xu1,2, Mingxia Li1,2

  • 1Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.

JACC. Case Reports
|March 29, 2024
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of left atrial dissection occurred in a 46-year-old man after aortic surgery, likely due to catheter injury. Transesophageal echocardiography is vital for diagnosing this complication.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Cardiac Imaging
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Aortic dissection surgery carries inherent risks.
  • Catheter-based procedures can lead to iatrogenic injuries.
  • Left atrial dissection is an exceptionally rare complication.

Observation:

  • A 46-year-old male developed left atrial dissection post-aortic dissection repair.
  • The dissection was linked to a coronary sinus catheter-related injury.
  • Clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges were noted.

Findings:

  • Transesophageal echocardiography confirmed the left atrial dissection.
  • The injury mechanism involved catheter manipulation.
  • Detailed discussion on pathogenesis and diagnostic criteria provided.

Implications:

  • Highlights the need for vigilance regarding rare cardiac complications post-surgery.
  • Emphasizes the diagnostic utility of transesophageal echocardiography in complex cardiac cases.
  • Informs management strategies for left atrial dissection.