Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026
09:17
High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 29, 2011
A Giant Free-Floating Left Atrial Thrombus With a Flipper Effect
Lorenzo Niro1, Gianluca Sclafani2, Teresa Cammelli1
1Cardiology Unit, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Prato, Italy.
JACC. Case Reports
|August 13, 2026
Summary
Diagnosing left atrial (LA) masses is difficult in patients with atrial fibrillation. A giant free-floating LA thrombus near a mechanical mitral prosthesis required urgent surgery, highlighting the importance of serial echocardiography.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Left atrial (LA) masses pose diagnostic challenges, especially in patients with atrial fibrillation, prior mitral valve surgery, and significant LA remodeling.
- Distinguishing between thrombus and other masses like myxoma can be complex.
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