Early detection of a congenital coronary artery fistula in a neonate by Doppler color flow mapping

Abstract

To describe a case of a congenital coronary artery fistula in a neonate with the diagnostic and surgical modalities used to manage this condition. A full-term infant was recently diagnosed with a coronary artery fistula. The patient was a term neonate, born without complications, which then appeared to be cyanotic and had a significant heart murmur. Echocardiography demonstrated a large right coronary fistula measuring 7 mm in diameter entering the right ventricle and a small patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) with a left to right shunt. The patient subsequently had patch closure of the coronary artery fistula and ligation of the PDA. Recovery followed from the procedure without apparent intra-operative or post-operative complications. Prompt diagnosis and surgical management of the neonate with a coronary fistula is essential to reduce the morbidity and mortality that may result from this condition.