Cx Artery Research Articles

A DIFFERENT VIEW OF MINOCA; A RARE CASE OF CORONARY CAMERAL FISTULA

Abstract Coronary cameral fistula (CCF) is defined as an abnormal connection between the coronary artery and the heart chambers. Although rare, most are asymptomatic, usually arising from the right coronary artery and terminating in the right ventricle or right atrium. Often detected incidentally, CCFs may present with symptoms of heart failure or rarely with anginal symptoms. Introduction A coronary cameral fistula is defined as an abnormal connection between the coronary artery and the heart chambers. CCFs are found in less than 1% of the population.[1] The most common coronary artery fistula is that arising from the right coronary artery and spilling into the right ventricle.[2] In particular, CCFs arising from all three epicardial coronary arteries are rare but can be clinically significant. These cases may present with acute coronary syndrome causing steal syndrome. Since there is usually no underlying obstructive lesion, these cases may be diagnosed as myocardial infarction without obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA)[3] Case; A 51 years old male patient was admitted to the emergency room with a complaint of stabbing chest pain for the last one week. In his anamnesis, he described that the chest pain increased with exertion and radiated to the back. It was learned that he had no known disease and coronary history, was a 20 pack/year smoker, had no family history and was not taking any medication regularly. Vital signs in the emergency room revealed a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg, pulse rate of 85 per minute and normal saturation. Electrocardiography (ECG) showed sinus rhythm V 1-6 with T negativity 85/min. (Figure 1) Echocardiography revealed no wall motion defect and no major valve pathology. Laboratory findings showed renal function tests within normal range, C-reactive protein within normal range, hemoglobulin level 17.6 gr/dl, HS Troponin-T level 12.9 ng/l (upper limit 14 ng/l). At 3 hours, the control HS Troponin-T level was 69.2 ng/l and the patient was hospitalized in the coronary intensive care unit with a prediagnosis of acute coronary syndrome. Coronary angiography was performed during follow-up. Angiography showed dilatation in the main coronary artery (LMCA), ectasia in the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and circumflex artery (CX), and diffuse tortuosity in the coronaries. CCF formed by the LAD, CX and right coronary artery (RCA) together and spilled into the left ventricle. Opaque filling was observed in the left ventricle. (Figure 2) Although the patient had a low body mass index, dilatation of the coronary arteries was thought to be the effect of steal syndrome caused by multiple fistulas. The patient was admitted to the coronary intensive care unit with medical follow-up. The patient's medical treatment was adjusted as acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) 100 mg pill 1*1, metaprolol 50 mg pill 1*1 and rosuvastatin 20 mg pill 1*1 due to an LDL cholesterol level of 149 mg/dl. In the patient who currently had no signs of heart failure, medical treatment was decided primarily in terms of CCF. The patient was discharged with the recommendation of outpatient follow-up. Discussion and Conclusion; CCFs are rare coronary anomalies.[1] When we look at the etiology, the most common cause of CCFs is abnormal embryogenesis.[4] While the diagnosis can be made at any age, the diagnosis is usually made in early childhood when a heart murmur occurs in an asymptomatic child or in a child with symptoms of heart failure. However, cases of CCF diagnosed at an advanced age with anginal complaints and signs of acute heart failure are seen in the literature. [5]Treatment depends on the anatomical features of the fistula and, of course, the patient's symptoms. While small fistulas may close spontaneously with age, large fistulas may require closure.It may cause anginal symptoms by causing heart failure symptoms and steal syndrome. [6]When we look at the literature, we can see that patients with CCF also present with acute coronary syndrome. [2, 4, 5,] As in the case reported by Alsancak Y et al., CCFs originating from all three coronary arteries cause steal syndrome and are often diagnosed with a prediagnosis of acute coronary syndrome.[7] The absence of an occlusive lesion after angiography in these patients with high troponin levels suggests atherosclerosis at the microvascular level and the diagnosis of MINOCA. [3]Angiography performed with suspicion of stenosis in the coronary arteries and finding a CHF instead of a stenosis may be considered lucky in these patients. The size of the fistula and the possibility that it may lead to heart failure in the follow-up will be the other side of the unlucky coin.

The Role of Intravascular Ultrasound in the Evaluation and Treatment of Free-Floating Stent Struts Following Inadequate Ostial Circumflex Stenting: A Case Report

Introduction: Excessive stent strut protrusion in the distal left main (LM) from either the left anterior descending (LAD) or circumflex (Cx) artery following inadequate ostial stenting may complicate any later procedure involving the left coronary artery. In such case scenarios, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) guidance provides accurate assessment of the ostial stent position and may facilitate subsequent management strategies and treatment. Case summary: We present a complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of LM bifurcation in a 49-year-old man following inadequate ostial Cx stenting that resulted in excessive stent protrusion in the distal LM segment, accompanied by a subsequent short 80–90% ostial LAD stenosis. Initially, IVUS was performed to confirm “floating struts” from a previous Cx ostial stenting and to ensure complete intraluminal placement of the wire within the stent leading to the Cx, precluding any side passage through the stent struts. Then, a second wire was inserted into the LAD through the most distal stent strut under live IVUS guidance. Further PCI was completed according to the principles of the double kissing mini-culotte technique. Final IVUS runs confirmed correct stent apposition and expansion in the LM, LAD and Cx segments. Conclusions: In cases involving the treatment of “free-floating” struts in the distal LM artery, intravascular imaging is essential to ensure optimal PCI outcomes.

The effect of hydrostatic pressure on invasive coronary pressure measurements: Comparison with [15O]H2O-positron emission tomography flow data.

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) has emerged as the invasive gold standard for assessing vessel-specific ischemia. However, FFR measurements are influenced by the hydrostatic effect, which might adversely impact the assessment of ischemia. This study aimed to investigate the impact of hydrostatic pressure on FFR measurements by correcting for the height and comparing FFR with [15O]H2O positron emission tomography (PET)-derived relative flow reserve (RFR). The 206 patients were included in this analysis. Patients underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), [15O]H2O PET, and invasive coronary angiography with routine FFR in every epicardial artery. Height differences between the aortic guiding catheter and distal pressure sensor were quantified on CCTA images. An FFR ≤ 0.80 was considered significant. The study found a reclassification in 7% of the coronary arteries. Notably, 11% of left anterior descending (LAD) arteries were reclassified from hemodynamically significant to nonsignificant. Conversely, 6% of left circumflex (Cx) arteries were reclassified from nonsignificant to significant. After correcting for the hydrostatic pressure effect, the correlation between FFR and PET-derived RFR increased significantly from r = 0.720 to r = 0.786 (p = 0.009). The average magnitude of correction was +0.05 FFR units in the LAD, -0.03 in the Cx, and -0.02 in the right coronary artery. Hydrostatic pressure has a small but clinically relevant influence on FFR measurements obtained with a pressure wire. Correcting for this hydrostatic error significantly enhances the correlation between FFR and PET-derived RFR.

Study of Left Coronary Artery and Its Variations: A Cadaveric Study from Gujarat Region

Background: A lot of variations have been analyzed in the case of the left coronary artery (LCA) which makes it a leading cause of death globally. Therefore, awareness of normal and variant anatomy of this artery in relation to its main trunk and branches is the key to physicians, cardiologists, and radiologists in the management of various cardiac pathologies. Materials and Methods: Eighty embalmed and formalin-fixed adult human cadaveric hearts of both genders with no history or signs of pathology were dissected meticulously during educational hours. Results and Conclusion: Among 80 hearts studied, 71 hearts left coronary ostia were located below the sinotubular junction. The mean distance of left coronary ostia from the supravalvular ridge lying above and below was 2.93 ± 0.39 mm and 2.72 ± 0.92 mm, respectively. The mean diameter of the left coronary ostium was 3.67 ± 0.94 mm. The mean length and diameter of the LCA main trunk (LCAMT) were 13.06 ± 2.42 mm and 4.93 ± 0.60 mm, respectively. The most common branching pattern of LCAMT was bifurcation. The most frequent range of length of left anterior descending (LAD) and circumflex (Cx) artery was 10–12 cm and 6.5–8 cm, respectively. The most common termination point of LAD was at the anterior one-third part of posterior interventricular sulcus and for Cx artery was between the crux and obtuse border of the heart. Right coronary dominance was the most common.

Long-Term Change in Flow Rates in Patients with Coronary Slow Flow

Introduction: Coronary slow flow (CSF) is a condition characterized by impaired blood flow rates in the coronary arteries. It can result in severe cardiovascular outcomes. There is no sufficient evidence regarding the certain etiology and reversibility of slow flow patterns and changes in frame counts with long-term management. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 48 patients with chronic coronary syndrome and CSF who underwent a second angiography. A corrected coronary frame rate (CFR) >27 was defined as CSF. We created 3 groups according to the change in CSF status as the improved, not changed, and worsened groups. We compared the CFR and CSF status of the patients between the first and second angiographies within a median of 2.6 years. Results: We determined a nonsignificant change in cCFR in left anterior descending (LAD) artery (34.4 [18.9] vs. 31.59 [10.3], p = 0.35), circumflex (Cx) artery (42.84 [12.56] vs. 40.66 [13.2], p = 0.35), and right coronary artery (RCA) (57.80 [30.13] vs. 50.32 [19.5], p = 0.11). In the comparison of CSF status of LAD (75% vs. 63%, p = 0.27), Cx (96% vs. 83%, p = 0.09), RCA (94% vs. 94%, p = 1.0) between first and second angiographies, there was no significant change. In the comparison of the 3 groups according to the improvement of CSF status, there was no significant difference in demographic features, change in laboratory parameters, and time between the groups. Conclusion: There was no significant change in the median CFR and CSF status in the overall group between the two angiographies after 3 years.

Coronaro Cameral Fistula: Literature Review, Diagnosis and Management, about a Case

A coronary fistula is defined as a direct connection between a coronary artery and a heart chamber, great vessel, or other vascular structure that "bypasses" the myocardial capillary bed. This is a rare pathology that is usually not discovered until later in life, and exceptionally not during childhood. We report the case of a young patient who was hospitalized for chest pain and shortness of breath and who was found to have a coronary fistula on angiography.
 A 66-year-old patient. Hypertension on dual therapy for 16 years and diabetes on OAD (Oral Antidiabetic) for 4 years. He was hospitalized with typical angina pectoris and dyspnea, and the stress test was positive. Laboratory examination revealed a good general condition with NYHA stage 3 dyspneic angina pectoris extending to the upper extremities and no evidence of heart failure. Looking at the balance, we see a slight increase in troponin. ECG returns to regular sinus rhythm, with electrical LVH (left ventricular hypertrophy) and ambient negative waves, no rhythm or conduction abnormalities. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) reverses hypertensive heart disease with good global and partial contractility without significant valvular disease associated with systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (SPAP) at 35 mmHg. Coronary angiography is performed and shows evidence of minor involvement of the central CX artery and a coronary camera fistula from the first diagonal artery draining into the left ventricle.
 Management was about optimizing medical care. The patient received an appointment and was declared discharged.
 Coronary camera fistulae are rare, found in approximately 0.3% of coronary angiographic studies performed. Most are congenital and may occur primarily due to trauma, erosive infection of the vessel wall, or iatrogenicity during transluminal coronary angioplasty, myocardial biopsy, or valve replacement. In many cases, simple but complex forms can be described. The gold standard for confirming the diagnosis remains coronary angiography, which highlights both the affected arteries and drainage sites. Cardiac scanners occupy an increasingly important position, especially as they provide morphologically accurate information. Surgical or percutaneous treatment of the fistula with a coil is recommended in symptomatic adult patients, especially those with significant or complicated right-to-left shunts. The authors suggest treatment with β-blockers when multiple sinusoidal fistulas associated with ventricular wall hypertrophy are present. Close monitoring is recommended for asymptomatic small fistula.
 Corneal fistula is a rare congenital or acquired condition that is mostly asymptomatic and discovered in adulthood. Coronary angiography and heart scan can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment is usually surgical or endovascular. However, in some cases, drug treatment with beta-blockers may help.

The Relationship Between Coronary Anatomy and Angina Pectoris During Stent Balloon Dilatation in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

Angina pectoris (AP) is defined as a clinical symptom characterized by sensations such as pressure-heaviness, burning, squeezing, or discomfort in different parts of the body, including the retrosternum, chest, jaw, neck, shoulders, and back. Limited publications exist on the impact of coronary artery disease localization on the placement, character, and severity of AP. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the frequency of AP development due to myocardial ischemia during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), its character, severity, localization, and coronary anatomy. A total of 128 patients were included in the study, with 146 lesions treated among them. Among patients who underwent PCI of the right coronary artery (RCA), 31.1% reported no complaints. Similar rates were observed in patients undergoing PCI of the left anterior descending (LAD) and circumflex (Cx) arteries, at 23.7% and 19.1%, respectively. Pressure-heaviness was frequently observed in PCI of the LAD and Cx arteries, while burning was the dominant symptom description in PCI of the RCA. The isolated retrosternal and left thoracic regions were the most common localizations in all main coronary arteries. Epigastric localization occurred most frequently in PCI of the RCA. In terms of the severity of angina, no significant difference was observed between the three coronary arteries. Pressure-heaviness angina was commonly observed during PCI of the LAD and Cx, while burning angina was frequent during PCI of the RCA. The severity of AP was similar across the three main coronary arteries.

Culprit plaque location within the left circumflex coronary artery predicts clinical outcomes in patients experiencing acute coronary syndromes with percutaneous coronary intervention: Data from the ORPKI registry.

The left circumflex (LCx) artery is the most diagnostically challenging of the coronary branches in terms of diagnostics because the clinical presentation and electrocardiography (ECG) do not always suggest critical occlusion despite its presence. Therefore, it is important to determine the factors contributing to the clinical manifestation and outcome, such as the culprit location. To determine the relationship between the location of the culprit plaque and clinical outcomes in the LCx artery. Data from the Polish Registry of Invasive Cardiology Procedures (ORPKI) from the years 2019-2020 concerning percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures were extracted and analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. 97 899 clinical records were analyzed. Patients with proximal occlusion received a worse grade using the Killip classification. Patients with Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) score 0 had worse clinical presentation in each of the occlusion locations. The periprocedural cardiac arrest and death rates were the highest among patients with proximal circumflex (Cx) occlusion. The death rate among patients with proximal occlusion and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) was greater than among patients with distal occlusion and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Among patients with proximal occlusions of the Cx artery and TIMI 0 grade flow on initial angiogram, a STEMI-like approach should be undertaken apart from initial ECG findings. This is driven by a higher rate of critical and fatal complications such as cardiac arrest and periprocedural death. Fatal complications occur more often in patients with proximal occlusion of Cx than in medial or distal occlusion. Grade IV according to the Killip classification can suggest a proximal culprit location.

An unusual congenital coronary anomaly: A circumflex coronary artery arising in ``shotgun`` with the right coronary artery in anterior ST – elevation myocardial infarction

Objective: Coronary anomalies do not generate symptoms, it is incidental findings when performing a coronary angiography in a patient with ischemic heart disease or valvular heart disease. The anomalous origin of the circumflex (LCX) of the right coronary artery (RCA) is one of the common anomalies. We describe a case of CX orifice arising from right coronary sinus in a ``shotgun`` manner with orifice of RCA and successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Case Report: In this case, the anomalous incidental finding was the arising of the CX artery in “shotgun” shape with the RCA (separate ostium) in a clinic scenario of anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction wherein the patient received fibrinolytic therapy with alteplase, presenting reperfusion criteria (&qt;50% ST-segment resolution at 60 minutes and relief angina) and then underwent to successful PCI. Conclusion: The ectopic origin of the CX is a well-recognized variant, which is considered the most common coronary anomaly. Although this anomaly is classified as benign and asymptomatic, a few cases of sudden death, myocardial infarction, and angina pectoris in the absence of atherosclerotic lesion have been reported. We shared successful PCI in such coronary anomaly in a patients with ST elevation anterior myocardial infarction. Such coronary anomalies should be considered as well in patients with STEMI undergoing PCI.

Aortocoronary Bypass for a Patient with Achondroplasia Using the Son's Saphenous Vein Homograft

<h3>Introduction</h3> Congenital dwarfism (achondroplasia) in severe form does not allow materials to be used as a routine aortocoronary artery bypass graft when the limb is very short. A saphenous vein homograft may be an option, but a vein graft taken from a close family member may be used. The report to introduce such a rare case at Viet Duc University Hospital, Vietnam. <h3>Case Report</h3> A case report of a man, 55 years old, severe congenital dwarfism with very short limbs, obesity, lipid metabolism disorders, stenosis - occlusion of 3 coronary arterial trunks with no indication for endovascular intervention, unstable angina, severe mitral regurgitation due to posterior ligament rupture, heart failure with an EF of about 50%. Mandatory indication for aortocoronary bypass and mitral valve repair. The patient's sternum was also deformed unfavorably to harvest the internal thoracic artery as a graft. The patient has a 25-year-old son with normal body shape and health. At Viet Duc Hospital, homograft has been used routinely, but no saphenous vein is available. <h3>Summary</h3> The procedure for organ donation was carried out in accordance with the law to use his son's saphenous vein as the main graft. Two operations were performed in parallel on November 26, 2019. The large saphenous vein in the two legs of the son was harvesting in two 20cm long segments - the operation went smoothly, and the son was awake and safe in 2 hours after surgery. Surgery for the father included two aortocoronary bypass (LAD and Cx arteries) using the son's vein, and mitral valve reconstruction with a ring. The postoperative process was quite favorable with some respiratory disorders, the endotracheal tube was removed after 3 days, the cardiac function and postoperative bypass were assessed well, the patient was discharged 17 days after surgery. The patient's son is also stable and discharged after 5 days. Periodic examination of patients in 2 years after surgery has good results. <h3>Conclusion</h3> In clinical practice, treatment solutions are very diverse and it is possible to explore and create the most reasonable solution for each specific complex situation. The case of using homograft donor tissue from a close relative, with legal procedures in accordance with the provisions of tissue-organ donation, as a material for coronary artery bypass grafting is such a situational solution.

Sinus Node Dysfunction due to Occlusion of the Sinus Node Artery during Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

Background Sinus node artery occlusion (SNO) is a rare complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We analyze both the short- and long-term consequences of SNO. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 1379 consecutive PCI's involving RCA and Cx arteries performed in our heart institute from 2016 to 2019. Median follow-up was 44 ± 5 months. Results Among the 4844 PCIs performed during the study period, 284 involved the RCA and the circumflex's proximal segment. Periprocedural SNO was estimated by angiography observed in 15 patients (5.3%), all originated from RCA. The majority of SNO occurred during urgent and primary PCIs following acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Sinus node dysfunction (SND) appeared in 12 (80%) of patients. Four (26.6%) patients had sinus bradycardia, which resolved spontaneously, and 8 (53.3%) patients had sinus arrest with an escaped nodal rhythm, which mostly responded to medical treatment during the first 24 hours. There was no association between PCI technique and outcome. Three patients (20%) required urgent temporary ventricular pacing. One patient had permanent pacemaker implantation. Pacemaker interrogation during follow-up revealed a recovery of the sinus node function after one month. Conclusion SNO is rare and seen mostly during angioplasty to the proximal segment of the RCA during ACS. The risk of developing sinus node dysfunction following SNO is high. SND usually appears during the first 24 h of PCI. The majority of SND patients responded to medical treatment, and only in rare cases were permanent pacemakers required.

Clinical and Prognostic Significance of Idiopathic Left Bundle-Branch Block in Young Adults.

Aims LBBB is rare in healthy young adults, and its long-term prognosis is uncertain. Methods 56 subjects (aged <50 years), in whom an LBBB was discovered by chance in the absence of clinical and echocardiographic evidence of heart disease, were collected in a multicenter registry. Results 69% were males. Mean age at the time of discovery of LBBB was 37 ± 11 years. Mean QRS duration was 149 ± 17 m sec and 35% had left axis deviation. All patients had a normal echocardiogram, except for left ventricular dyssynchrony; 37 patients underwent coronary angiography (30) or myocardial scintigraphy during effort Eriksson and Wilhelmsen (2005), and in all cases obstructive coronary artery disease was excluded. In 2/30 patients who underwent coronary angiography, an anomalous origin of the CX artery from the right coronary sinus was found. Thirty patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance; in 60% it was normal, while in 40% it revealed late enhancement, which in 33% was localized in the basal septum, suggesting fibrosis of the left bundle branch. During follow-up (12+/10 years, median 10 years) no sudden death occurred. At the end of follow-up, all patients were alive, except for one who suffered accidental death. Two patients (3.5%) underwent PM implantation owing to syncope. The echocardiogram at the end of follow-up revealed LV dysfunction in only one patient. Conclusions In young adults without apparent heart disease, LBBB is a heterogeneous condition. In the vast majority of cases, the prognosis is good and no ventricular dysfunction occurs over time. However, as only 18% of our patients were aged >60 years at the end of follow-up, we cannot establish the prognosis in older age-groups.

Microwave spectrometry for the evaluation of coronary stents

Abstract Background Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, and percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting the most widely performed procedure to treat CAD. However, current stent monitoring techniques are invasive and/or ionizing. Microwave spectrometry (MWS) may provide a non-invasive, non-ionizing and cost-effective alternative capable of detecting stent-related pathologies before fatal heart failure. Purpose To develop a new MWS-based technology to detect coronary stents in an in vivo swine model. Methodology First, using two new MWS devices, an in vitro experiment was carried out to demonstrate their ability of detecting the presence of: (1) a stent and (2) stent fractures (SF). To that end, an intact stent was distanced 3, 7, 11 and 15 mm from a MWS near-field probe in open-air conditions. Afterwards, three identical stents were piecemeal cut to emulate type I, II and III SF at different fractions of the stent's length (l): l/5, l/3 or l/2. Additionally, the stent was measured in a phantom substance, to simulate in vivo conditions: it was distanced from 0 to 40 mm in steps of 5 mm. Likewise, using a pair of MWS far-field antennas, the stent in phantom was measured at 10, 20, 30 and 40 mm. Finally, the MWS technology was assessed in vivo. To that end, six Landrace X Large White pigs were submitted to a stent implantation into the circumflex coronary artery (CX). The antennas measured the stent non-invasively, over the rib cage of the animals. MWS analysis were performed baseline (before stent implantation), and at 0, 3, 7, 14, 21 and 35 days of follow up. Measurements were performed only before ventricular systole to avoid differences in the stent position and deformation. Results In vitro, maxima and minima extrema in the microwave frequency response (see figure) were used to detect the stent. Type I and II SF produced 5 and 10% downshifts in the extrema frequencies with respect to the baseline values (unbroken stent), while type III produced 20% upshifts and a maxima splitting. Embedding the stent in phantom produced 25% downshift in the extrema frequencies. In vivo, the MWS antennas were useful to detect the stent presence into the CX artery during all time points of study, in all animals. Conclusions We have developed a new non-invasive and non-ionizing MWS technology capable of detecting the presence of a stent in a porcine model. Furthermore, we have proven how our technology can monitor structural damages in the stent (SF) and changes in its environment. This study proves the MWS potential to become a simple and yet effective method to arise stent-related pathologies in a pre-clinical stage; it could also provide physical insight about additional biological processes. Further improvements on the MWS device as well as in vivo measurements will ensure its consistency when monitoring human stents. Stent detection using MWS technique Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Fundaciό La MARATÓ de TV3, Generalitat de Catalunya, Red de Terapia Celular – TerCel, CIBER Cardiovascular, Spanish Agencia Estatal de Investigaciόn Unidad de Excelencia Maria de Maeztu, Sociedad Española de Cardilogía

Assessment of Myocardial Perfusion by Angiographic Methods in Tortuous Coronary Arteries.

The relationship between coronary tortuosity (CorT) and tissue-level myocardial perfusion is not clear. We investigated tissue perfusion in myocardial territories supplied by tortuous coronary arteries. Among patients who had undergone coronary angiography, patients with reported CorT, those with ≥1 coronary artery were included in the study group (100 patients). The control group included patients with normal coronary arteries (100 patients). Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction frame count (TFC) and myocardial blush grade (MBG) were calculated for each coronary artery. Mean TFC was significantly higher in tortuous right coronary artery (RCA), left anterior descending (LAD) artery, and circumflex (Cx) artery compared to their non-tortuous counterparts (28.81 ± 6.463 vs 21.94 ± 3.328, P = .009; 43.28 ± 5.698 vs 36.17 ± 3.875, P = .006; 29.35 ± 4.111 vs 23.821 ± 2.639; P < .001, respectively). Mean MBG was also significantly lower in tortuous RCA, LAD, and Cx, compared to their normal counterparts (2.78 ± 0.417 vs 2.98 ± 0.155, P < .001; 2.74 ± 0.483 vs 2.97 ± 0.164, P < .001; 2.92 ± 0.277 vs 2.99 ± 0.110, P < .001, respectively). For each tortuous coronary artery, TFC was similar for every MBG category. Tortuous coronary arteries have higher TFC and lower MBG, suggesting impaired epicardial and microvascular coronary flow, when compared to normal coronary arteries.

Catheter-induced Multiple Non-proximal Coronary Spasm in a Patient Presenting with Myocardial Infarction

Interventional cardiologists encounter a wide range of lesions that cannot be angiographically distinguished from fixed atherosclerotic obstructive disease. In this case report, we document vasospasm at multiple sites in the coronary territory in a patient presenting with acute coronary syndrome. A 61-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with typical chest pain lasting approximately 1 h. After performing the left coronary artery angiography, a severe tubular stenosis was detected in circumflex (Cx) artery. Diffuse spasm was observed in the right coronary artery (RCA) and it resolved after intracoronary administration of nitroglycerin. After performing left system angiography again, severe stenosis in Cx artery was also completely resolved. Our finding is of clinical importance in that it is more likely to simulate a constant coronary stenosis than would have spasm occurred proximally. The clinical importance of our report is that a catheter-induced vasospasm (CIV) may simulate fixed coronary stenosis, not always osteally and in some instances at multiple sites. Awareness of this phenomenon and liberal use of nitroglycerin in any patient with discrete luminal narrowing, even when an ostial “lesion” is not present, can help to avoid misinterpreting CIV as an atherosclerotic lesion.

Coronary stent embolism to the right posterior cerebral artery

A 57-year-old male was admitted to the emergency room with chest pain that has been present for 3 hours. His blood pressure was 70/50 mmHg and heart rate was 48 bpm. 12-lead surface electrocardiography revealed inferior myocardial infarction and third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block. An emergency coronary angiography showed a 50% stenosis in the middle segment of the left anterior descending artery and 90% in the proximal circumflex (Cx) artery. The right coronary artery was totally occluded. After the predilatation with a 2.0x15 mm compliant balloon at 10 atm, a 3.5x24 mm bare metal stent was implanted. The third-degree AV block improved and a sinus rhythm of 124 bpm was achieved, but hemodynamic stability was not attained. Percutaneous coronary intervention for the Cx artery was performed. Without predilatation, a 3.5x12 mm low profile BMS was easily advanced over the lesion. Just before the stent implantation, asystole developed, followed by convulsions. Blood pressure and heart rate recovered after the administration of 1 mg of atropine. However, during the seizure, the guidewire and coronary stent device fell to the aortic root. Stent struts were not seen on the balloon catheter in a fluoroscopic examination. Fluoroscopic scanning of the vascular system showed that the coronary stent was in the right posterior cerebral artery. There were no symptoms or signs of neurological disorder. Consultant invasive neuroradiologist recommended medical follow-up. Clopidogrel and acetylsalicylic acid were prescribed indefinitely. Two months after the primary PCI, a successful coronary artery bypass graft operation was performed. After 4 years, the patient remained without any symptoms of neurological problems.

P706 LMCA and LAD coronary ectasia in an asymptomatic young patient reassessment with multimodality imaging after 17 years

Abstract A 25 years old male patient was referred to an advanced center because of 2/6-degree systolo-diastolic murmur heard at meso-cardiac area during his pre-military routine examination. ECG revealed T wave inversions at standard D1 to D3 and precordial V1 to V4 leads, treadmill was non-diagnostic for ischemia. In his transthoracic echocardiogram, measurement of heart chambers and wall thicknesses were within normal range with normal wall motion of the left ventricle, EF was 55%. 2D and color-Doppler echocardiography revealed a cystic structure with venous flow in it at the right ventricular apex, and created a suspicion of a fistula. Myocardial perfusion scintigraphy showed ischemia at the apical sections of the septal wall. He underwent coronary angiography, LMCA and proximal LAD were ectatic, LAD ectasia was in consistent with the first septal branch, circumflex (Cx) and right coronary artery (RCA) angiograms were normal. LAD flow was examined and no fistula was detected. Right and left ventriculography revealed normal ventricular functions, oxygen saturations were 70.9% in pulmonary artery, 70.4% in right ventricle, 72.9% in right atrium, and 97.4% in the aorta. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was 10 mmHg, pulmonary artery pressure 10/26/5 mmHg, right ventricular pressure 13/6 mmHg, left ventricular pressure 120/0/8 mmHg. Further investigations for etiology and congenital malformations were planned and the patient was discharged with oral anticoagulant therapy. The patient had no contact with the outpatient clinic for 17 years. At the 17th year of the diagnosis he was called and reevaluated. He was still asymptomatic and oscultation findings were the same. Transthoracic 2D and 3D and color-Doppler echocardiography revealed the same cystic structure at the right ventricular apex, but this time with no-flow. Coronary CT angiography was performed, LMCA was ectatic and the diameter was 8.1 mm, proximal LAD was ectatic and the diameter was 6 mm, ectasia was in continuous with the first septal branch. The ectatic septal branch was at the apical level of the right ventricle, appearing like a cystic structure with a diameter of 2.8 cm, and the lack of contrast enhancement was thougt to be in consistent with thrombus formation. Cx and RCA artery calibrations were found to be normal. In order to confirm the diagnosis of thrombus formation, MR angiography was performed. Perfusion MRI showed no evidence of thrombus in the ectatic septal branch. Abstract P706 Figure.

6120Anatomical investigation of the sinus node artery and the radiofrequency application sites for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background Circumferential pulmonary vein isolation is an established therapy for selected patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Three-dimensional imaging modalities can be useful to establish the mechanism of a procedure-related complication. Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the course of the sinus node artery (SNA) and the coronary arterial injury during catheter ablation of AF. Methods In the 254 consecutive patients, the courses of the SNA were recorded using multislice computed tomography. Results The visualization rate was 96.9% (246/254). Of 246 patients, 287 SNAs were detected among which 114 (44.9%) originated from the right coronary artery, 91 (35.9%) from the left circumflex (Cx) artery, and 41 (16.1%) from both the right and Cx artery. Only SNAs originated from the Cx artery coursed along the left atrium. Only in 2 patients, SNAs coursed endocardial surface of the left atrium. In one of these 2 patients, sinus node dysfunction developed just after the ablation of the right superior pulmonary vein ostium, requiring a permanent pacemaker implantation. The SNA originated from the distal Cx artery, and precisely coursed endocardial surface at the radiofrequency application site. Coronary angiography revealed the occlusion of the SNA at that site, and the SNA occlusion was presumed the cause of the sinus node dysfunction in this patient. Conclusion The recognition of the course of the SNA is important in minimizing the risk of sinus node dysfunction during catheter ablation of AF.

Association of the TG/HDL-C and Monocyte Count/HDL-C Ratios with Coronary Artery Disease in Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Monocyte Count/HDL ratio (MHR) is a simple and inexpensive parameter used as a risk predictor in patients diagnosed with myocardial infarction (MI). This study aims to investigate the association between Triglyceride/HDL-C (TG/HDL-C) ratio and coronary artery disease in patients diagnosed with non-ST segment elevation MI (NSTEMI). Total of 100 patients, 50 patients with NSTEMI and 50 healthy individuals, who had admitted to the cardiology outpatient clinic between January 2018 and January 2019 included in the study. Higher monocyte count, MHR, and TG/HDL-C ratios detected in patients with coronary artery disease in comparison to healthy individuals. Although monocyte count was higher in NSTEMI group, the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.101). There was an increase in the MHR NSTEMI group when compared against the control group (p&lt;0.05). In the NSTEMI group, the best cut-off point for MHR value determined as 2.33 with 56% sensitivity and 76% selectivity. TG/HDL-C ratio was found to be numerically higher in the disease group. However, it was not statistically significant (p=0.386). The best cut-off point for the TG/HDL-C ratio determined as 3.33, with 52% sensitivity and 54% selectivity. In the sub-group analyses performed with regards to coronary anatomy, a statistically significant relation was found between MHR and Circumflex (Cx) artery in predicting the lesion responsible for ischemia (p=0.009). Conclusion In our study, MHR (OR=1.725, p=0.030) was found to be statistically significant in NSTEMI patients, and although TG/HDL-C (OR=1.526, p=0.386) ratio was numerically higher than the control group; it was not statistically significant in predicting severe coronary artery disease.

Incomplete revascularization and long-term survival after coronary artery bypass surgery

BackgroundWe sought to investigate the impact of incomplete revascularization (IR) on long-term survival after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The possible interaction between IR and off-pump surgery was also explored. MethodsA total of 13,701 patients with multivessel disease undergoing CABG were included in the analysis. All patients received left internal thoracic artery (LITA) to the left anterior descending artery (LAD) territory. IR was defined as at least one diseased arterial territory (right coronary artery [RCA] and/or circumflex [CX] artery) incompletely revascularized. ResultsOverall, 3107 (22.7%) patients received IR. After propensity score matching, IR did not increase all-cause death in the overall group (HR 1.09; 95%CI 0.96–1.22; P=0.17). However, when both RCA and CX artery were incompletely revascularized, late survival was significantly lower (HR 2.15; 95%CI 1.57–2.93). IR was associated with a higher risk of death after off-pump (HR 1.26; 95%CI 1.05–1.49) regardless the extent of IR. After on-pump, IR significantly affected survival only when both RCA and CX artery only were incompletely revascularized (HR 2.32; 95%CI 1.27–4.22). ConclusionsThe present analysis shows that in patients with LITA-LAD graft the impact of IR on survival is marginal when only one coronary territory is left ungrafted. When both the RCA and CX territory remain unrevascularized the survival rate is significantly reduced. IR after off-pump CABG is associated with significantly lower survival and affects long-term outcome even when only one coronary territory is not revascularized.