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[A case of left atrial ball thrombus]
Kyobu Geka. the Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery
|September 1, 1993
Summary
A rare left atrial ball thrombus associated with mitral stenosis was successfully removed via emergency surgery. Prompt surgical intervention is crucial for patients with left atrial ball thrombus to prevent sudden death.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Mitral stenosis is a significant risk factor for left atrial thrombus formation.
- Free-floating left atrial thrombi, particularly ball thrombi, are uncommon in patients with valvular heart disease.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old male presented with transient left hemiparesis, prompting echocardiography.
- Echocardiography revealed an oval free-floating thrombus in the left atrium alongside severe mitral stenosis.
- The patient underwent emergency surgical intervention for thrombus removal and mitral valve replacement.
Findings:
- A large (3 x 4 cm) ball thrombus was successfully excised from the left atrium.
- The diseased mitral valve was replaced with a St. Jude Medical (SJM) prosthetic valve.
- The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative recovery.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering cardiac embolism in patients with neurological deficits and underlying heart conditions.
- Immediate surgical management of left atrial ball thrombus is essential to mitigate the risk of catastrophic embolic events and sudden death.
- Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for patients with rare cardiac thrombi and valvular disease.