Right Coronary Artery to Coronary Sinus Fistula: A Rare Problem With an Elegant Solution

Coronary artery aneurysms with fistulas to the coronary sinus are rare lesions that are associated with right heart volume overload. They are challenging to manage due to the difficulty in locating and treating the fistula.

A 62-year-old man presented with exertional dyspnea. Imaging revealed a large serpentine right coronary artery aneurysm fistulizing to the coronary sinus, causing right heart dilatation. Surgery involved complete aneurysmal unroofing, fistula closure, and creation of a "neo-right coronary artery" using a reverse saphenous vein graft and 8 sequential coronary anastomoses. Postoperatively, he achieved excellent functional recovery with symptom resolution.

We describe a comprehensive coronary aneurysm repair approach similar to a thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair with in situ reconstruction of the native coronary artery with saphenous vein. This approach offers cardiac surgeons a novel alternative for complex cases unsuitable for transcatheter closure, particularly with fistula diameter >10 mm. It offers an advantage over lesser surgical procedures that ligate the fistula with or without aneurysm exclusion and coronary bypass, which are associated with risk of aneurysm thrombosis and potential ischemic complications from compromised coronary inflow.

Complex coronary artery fistulas require individualized surgical planning and innovative techniques. Complete aneurysmal repair with comprehensive revascularization is feasible.