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[The diagnosis of left atrial thrombi by selective coronary arteriogram and two-dimensional echocardiogram (author's
Insights
Coronary arteriography and two-dimensional echocardiography accurately predict left atrial thrombi in 93% of patients. Coronary arteriography identifies thrombi location, while echocardiography reveals size and shape.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
Context:
- Left atrial thrombi present a significant risk in patients with severe hemodynamic compromise.
- Accurate thrombi detection and characterization are crucial for effective treatment planning.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the combined diagnostic utility of coronary arteriography and real-time, two-dimensional echocardiography for left atrial thrombi.
- To compare imaging findings with surgical outcomes in a cohort of patients.
Summary:
- A study involving 14 patients with left atrial thrombi assessed the efficacy of coronary arteriography and two-dimensional echocardiography.
- The combined imaging approach achieved a 93% prediction rate for left atrial thrombi.
- Coronary arteriography excelled at localizing thrombi, particularly in the left atrial appendage, whereas two-dimensional echocardiography accurately determined thrombi size and shape.
Impact:
- This combined imaging strategy offers a highly effective method for diagnosing left atrial thrombi.
- Improved diagnostic accuracy can lead to better patient management and outcomes for individuals with severe cardiovascular conditions.
Abstract:
In 14 patients with left atrial thrombi, coronary arteriography and real time, two-dimensional echocardiography were performed and compared with the surgical findings. Age of the patients with left atrial thrombi was relatively high, and their hemodynamic findings were severe. By the combined use of coronary arteriography and real time two-dimensional echocardiography, the prediction of left atrial thrombi was possible in 93%. Coronary arteriography provided a useful information as to the location of thrombi, especially in the left atrial appendage, while the size and shape of thrombi were not predictable by this method. On the contrary, two-dimensional echocardiography was useful to determine the size and shape of the thrombi.