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Postoperative Myocardial Infarction Due to Coronary Embolization of Valve Tissue After Surgical Mitral Valve
Hasan Hadzalic1, Selma Hasific2, Luca Oechslin1
1Heart Clinic Hirslanden, Zurich, Switzerland.
Insights
A 61-year-old man with Barlow's disease experienced heart attack and cardiac arrest shortly after minimally invasive mitral valve surgery. This was caused by coronary artery occlusion from native mitral valve tissue.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Pathology
Background:
- Barlow's disease, a degenerative mitral valve disorder, can necessitate surgical intervention.
- Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery offers potential benefits but carries risks.
- Coronary artery complications post-cardiac surgery require careful consideration.
Observation:
- A 61-year-old male patient with pre-existing Barlow's disease underwent minimally invasive mitral valve surgery.
- The patient experienced immediate postoperative myocardial infarction and cardiac arrest within one hour.
- The critical event was linked to coronary artery occlusion.
Findings:
- Native mitral valve tissue was identified as the cause of coronary artery occlusion.
- This occlusion occurred in the immediate postoperative period following mitral valve surgery.
- The patient suffered a myocardial infarction and cardiac arrest due to the obstruction.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but critical complication of mitral valve surgery.
- Native valve tissue obstruction of coronary arteries is a potential cause of acute cardiac events post-surgery.
- Awareness and diagnostic vigilance are crucial for managing such adverse events in cardiac surgery patients.
Abstract:
We present the case of a 61-year-old man with known Morbus Barlow disease, who presented with postoperative myocardial infarction and cardiac arrest within 1 hour after minimally invasive mitral valve surgery owing to coronary artery occlusion by native mitral valve tissue.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction
Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

