Ostial Stenosis Research Articles

230 ANOMALOUS ORIGIN OF LEFT CIRCUMFLEX ARTERY FROM RIGHT SINUS OF VALSALVA: A RARE CASE BUT WITH GREAT CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Abstract Introduction The anomalous connection of the left circumflex artery (LCx) to the right coronary artery (RCA) or sinus is the most frequent coronary artery (CA) anomaly. Among them, only those with an interarterial course are regarded as hidden conditions at risk of myocardial ischemia (MI) and sudden cardiac death (SCD). We report an uncommon of anomalous origin of LCx from the right sinus of Valsalva and a retroaortic path causing MI. Case presentation A 61-year-old man presented to the emergency department complaining palpitations and chest discomfort for an hour. He only had history of hypertension. Physical examination was unremarkable. The ECG demonstrated atrial flutter with a 2:1 conduction ratio and a ventricular rate of 157 bpm and ST segment depression in leads V4-6. Transthoracic echocardiography did not reveal segmental kinetic anomalies but a five-chamber apical view showed a “RAC sign”, typical of anomalous retroaortic course of the left coronary artery. The patient was treated with intravenous infusion of amiodarone. He restored sinus rhythm and symptoms regressed completely, but the ECG taken after conversion showed flattened T waves in leads V5-6 and negative T waves in I and aVL. Cardiac enzymes had transient increase. After the acute episode ended the patient underwent cardiac computed tomography angiography (CTA) with evidence of anomalous origin of LCx from the right sinus with a retroaortic course. A coronary angiography excluded obstructive atherosclerotic coronary lesions. Nuclear myocardial perfusion imaging revealed reversible small subsegmental perfusion defects in mid inferolateral wall and apical lateral wall. We established a medical treatment with beta-blocker. Discussion Our patient had anomalous connection of the LCx branch to the right sinus of Valsalva with a retroaortic course. Although this anomaly is usually considered benign, cases of association with SCD and MI have been reported. The factor responsible for this pathogenicity could be high orifice, ostial stenosis, slit-like/fish-mouth-shaped orifice and acute-angle take-off. As cardiac CTA did not reveal any of these characteristics, we hypothesized that the increased cardiac output and expansion of the great vessels during tachycardia could cause compression of the retroaortic segment or angling at its origin and generate ischemia. Repolarization abnormalities at ECG are well documented during supraventricular tachycardia as a response to pacing-induced stress. These changes are usually diffused and disappear after conversion to sinus rhythm. In this case they appeared hours later, accompanied by cardiac enzyme buildup. As the epicardial coronary arteries did not show any pathology, we suggest that the patient had transient ischemia due to LCx anomaly. We confirmed it by myocardial perfusion imaging. As for the management of this anomaly in adults, surgery is recommended as class IC in patients with typical angina symptoms who present with evidence of stress-induced myocardial ischemia in a matching territory or high-risk anatomy. Our patient has never had clear manifestations of angina. All these elements together with the age of our patient motivated us to use a conservative approach. Conclusions We report a case of anomalous origin of LCx from right sinus of Valsalva causing transient myocardial ischemia in a patient that has always been asymptomatic. This anomaly has been and continues to be considered benign, nevertheless we suggest to judge the clinical significance of this kind of CA anomaly on a case-by-case integrated approach.

219 ISOLATED CORONARY OSTIAL STENOSIS DUE TO RECURRENT AORTIC WALL THROMBOSIS

Abstract Background Coronary ostial lesions are a rare entity and isolated coronary ostial stenosis is even less frequent. Diffuse coronary artery atherosclerosis is the main cause for the non-isolated stenosis, based on old post-mortem series and histological analysis of tissue removed during atherectomies. Case presentation A 49-year-old woman suffering from mild non-familial hypercholesterolemia reported to her family physician repeated episodes of chest pain related to exercise. During a cardiological outpatient evaluation, 12 lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiography turned out normal. During a stress test she had recurrent chest pain coupled with ECG ischemic changes (diffuse ST segment elevation). She was immediately referred to the emergency department where the ECG was back to normal and the troponin dosage within normal range. Coronary angiography was performed: non-selective cannulation revealed some irregularities of the aortic wall profile at the level of the right coronary ostium, with inability to visualize the right coronary artery. The selective cannulation of the left main coronary artery (LMCA), left anterior descending (LAD) and left circumflex branches showed a critical ostial stenosis at the origin of the LMCA without any other relevant lumen restriction, in a left-dominant pattern of coronary circulation. A suspicion of LAD dissection was raised when a laminar flux was observed at its origin. At the end of the procedure, the patient suddenly collapsed. The recorded rhythm was initially bradycardia, evolving to episodes of ventricular tachycardia for which multiple shocks were applied. Despite the resuscitation efforts, the patient never recovered. Autopsy was performed at the local hospital. At gross analysis, a non-uniform pale-tan thickening at the level of the sino-tubular junction was evident with involvement of both the right and left coronary ostia. Histological examination allowed to ascribe the thickening to recurrent thrombosis, without any underlying inflammatory process at the level of the aortic wall and with only minimal atherosclerotic plaques. No coronary artery dissection nor significant stenosis was present in all the coronary tree. Regarding the ventricular myocardium, one focus of replacement-type fibrosis was identified at subendocardial level in the infero-septal wall coupled with a small spot of loose connective tissue rich in hemosiderin-laden macrophages in the same region, consistent with an area of subacute ischemic damage. Conclusion Several series reported a higher frequency of isolated coronary ostial stenosis in women versus men. In fact, female sex along with hypertriglyceridemia have been recognized as independent risk factors for ostial lesions. The case herein reported highlights the diagnostic relevance of the autopsy investigation together with clinicopathological correlation, particularly in cases where the definite diagnosis can't be achieved in vivo.

278 A CASE OF ACCIDENTAL DIAGNOSIS OF ALCAPA SYNDROME IN ASYMPTOMATIC CHILD

Abstract A 7-year-old (y.o.) boy was referred to our center for a specialist evaluation due to alteration of the ventricular repolarization in the anterior and lateral lead on the electrocardiogram at medical evaluation for physical activity. The child was totally asymptomatic, with normal growth and unremarkable past medical history. The physical examination revealed only S4 and a minimal apical systolic murmur. Transthoracic echocardiogram demonstrated a mildly dilated left ventricle (LV) and normal left ventricular ejection fraction. Strain pattern of basal-medium segments of lateral wall was reduced. Right coronary artery (RCA) appeared dilatated and the left coronary artery (LCA) showed an inverse flow at Doppler evaluation. Findings were suspicious for ALCAPA diagnosis (Anomalous Left Coronary Artery Arising from the Pulmonary Artery); a rare congenital heart disease that, if not treated, leads to death in 90% of cases during first year of life. Adult type of ALCAPA (adolescence-60 y.o) is even more rare and can cause heart failure due to a dilatative cardiomyopathy, chronic cardiac ischemia and, in 80-90% of cases, sudden cardiac death. We performed a coronary angiography that confirmed the anomalous origin of LCA from the pulmonary artery. The RCA was dominant, enlarged and supplied an important collateral flow for LCA. Coronary angiography is indicated not only for diagnosis confirmation, but also for coronary tree demonstration, especially in adult type of ALCAPA, because of the presence of not rare anomalies or “adaptation” of peripheral coronary circulation. All these features are important positive prognostic factors that enable survival beyond infancy. LCA ostium stenosis or bronchial artery collateral vessels are also common but weren't seen in this case. In adult type of ALCAPA surgery is usually indicated at the time of diagnosis, so a coronary button transfer and pulmonary Valsalva sinus reconstruction with autologous pericardial patch were performed. This is the preferred surgical technique in adult patients as it is the most anatomic correction. Since before hospitalization heart failure therapy with betablocker was introduced and after surgery aspirin therapy was started too. Post-surgery transthoracic echocardiogram highlighted a moderate pericardial effusion without haemodynamic impact and a pleural effusion, so an anti-inflammatory therapy with ibuprofen, cortisone and then colchicine was started. After discharge anti-inflammatory therapy was under-titrated until suspension based on gradual reduction of pericardial and pleural effusion. Patient was always free of symptoms and with good performance status. ALCAPA or Bland–White–Garland syndrome is an uncommon congenital heart disease. The presence of adequate collateral circulation between RCA and LCA allows to survive beyond infancy (adult type). We described a case of early diagnosis of adult type of ALCAPA in asymptomatic child thanks to a careful examination of basal electrocardiogram for evaluation of non-competitive sport practice.

A Case of Middle Aged Women with Isolated Left Coronary ostial stenosis with Non ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Background: The stenosis of the ostial left anterior descending artery represents one of the challenges for the interventional cardiologist. In contrast ostial stenosis of the left main trunk shows very good results after percutaneous interventions and implantation of drug-eluting stents. The indications for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) of an ostial lesion correspond to the indications for treatment of all other lesions. Case: A-56-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital who was initially admitted in the intensive care unit for a severe acute chest pain. She had no coronary risk factors. No hormonal disorders were observed. Physical and laboratory examinations revealed that she had not suffered from syphilis or aortitis syndrome or any other inflammatory diseases. An electrocardiogram (ECG) was immediately performed and showed ST segment non elevation in the precordial leads (Figure 1) suggesting an acute anterior ST Non elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). On coronary angiography, a 80% stenosis of the left coronary ostial stenosis was found, but no abnormality was found in other arterial trees. (Figure 2) The patient was diagnosed as having isolated coronary ostial stenosis. Conclusion: The patients are almost always middle aged woman with no coronary risk factors. , the involved coronary artery is the left main coronary artery, so its obstruction results in a serious condition. Therefore, though its pathogenesis remains to be determined, isolated left coronary ostial stenosis seems to be a distinct clinical entity.

Trends and Real-World Safety of Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Symptomatic Stable Ischaemic Heart Disease in Australia

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in stable ischaemic heart disease (SIHD) has not been shown to improve prognosis but can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Appropriately selected patients with symptoms refractory to medical therapy therefore stand to benefit, provided safety is proven. Consecutive patients undergoing PCI for SIHD between 2005-2018 in a prospective registry were included. Yearly comparisons evaluated trends, and a sub-analysis was performed comparing proximal left anterior descending artery (prox-LAD) to other-than-proximal LAD (non-pLAD) PCI. Outcomes included peri-procedural characteristics, in-hospital and 30-day event rates including MACE, and 5-year National Death Index (NDI) linked mortality. There were 9,421 procedures included. Over time, patients were increasingly co-morbid and had higher rates of AHA/ACC class B2/C lesions, ostial stenoses, bifurcation lesions, and chronic total occlusions (all p-for-trend ≤0.001). Over 14 years, major bleeding reduced (1.05% in 2005/06 vs 0.29% in 2017/18, p-for-trend <0.001), while other in-hospital and 30-day event rates were stably low. There were only seven (0.07%) in hospital deaths and 5-year mortality was 10.3%. No differences were found in outcomes between patients who underwent prox-LAD compared to non-pLAD PCI. Major independent predictors of NDI linked all-cause mortality included an eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (HR 4.06, 95% CI 3.26-5.06), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (HR 2.25, 95% CI 1.89-2.67) and LVEF <30% (HR 2.13, 95% CI 1.57-2.89). Although patient and procedural complexity increased over time, a high degree of procedural success and safety was maintained, including in those undergoing prox-LAD PCI. These real-world data can enhance shared decision making discussions regarding whether PCI should be pursued in patients with symptomatic SIHD refractory to medical therapy.

ASCENDING AORTIC ANEURYSMS: SURGERY, RMODELLING & AI

ASCENDING AORTIC ANEURYSMS: SURGERY, RMODELLING & AI

Analysis on the correlation between the occurrence of vertebral artery ostium stenosis and the severity of osteoporosis in elderly patients with atherosclerosis

To analyze the correlation between the occurrence of vertebral artery ostium stenosis (VAOS) and the severity of osteoporosis in elderly patients with atherosclerosis (AS), and disclose the physiopathologic mechanism of the correlation between VAOS and osteoporosis. 120 patients were divided into two groups. The baseline data of both groups were collected. The biochemical indicators of patients in both groups were collected. The EpiData database was established to enter all the data into the database for statistical analysis. There were significant differences in the incidence of dyslipidemia among risk factors of cardia-cerebrovascular disease (P<0.05). LDL-C, Apoa and Apob were significantly lower than the control group (P<0.05). BMD, T-value and Ca in the observation group were significantly lower than the control group, while BALP and serum phosphorus in the observation group were significantly higher than the control group (P<0.05). The more severe the VAOS stenosis, the higher the incidence of osteoporosis, and there was a statistical difference in the risk of osteoporosis among different VAOS stenosis degrees (P<0.05). Apolipoprotein A, B and LDL-C in blood lipids are important factors affecting the development of bone and artery diseases. There is a significant correlation between VAOS and the severity of osteoporosis. The pathological calcification process of VAOS has many similarities with the process of bone metabolism and osteogenesis, and shows preventable and reversible physiological characteristics.

Use of drug-eluting, balloon-expandable resolute onyx coronary stent as a novel treatment strategy for vertebral artery ostial stenosis: Case series.

Vertebral artery (VA) ostial stenosis is notoriously difficult to treat using bare-metal stents owing to high rates of restenosis and stent kinking and breakage. We investigated the safety and effectiveness of treatment with a drug-eluting, balloon-expandable coronary stent (Resolute Onyx, Medtronic). Our prospectively maintained database was retrospectively searched for consecutive patients diagnosed with VA ostial stenosis who underwent Resolute Onyx stenting with/without angioplasty between January 1, 2015 and January 1, 2022. Patient demographics and clinical and radiographic presentations were recorded. Occlusion location, stenosis severity, contralateral disease, devices used, and intraprocedural and postprocedural complications were noted. Outcomes were assessed based on new or recurrent stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Patients were followed up clinically and with radiographic imaging for in-stent stenosis. Twenty-six patients were included in our study (21 men [80.8%]; mean age 70.3 ± 9.8 years). Symptomatic patients presented with TIA (11/26, 42.3%) and stroke (10/26; 38.5%). Mean stenosis in the study cohort was 74.9 ± 13.0%. One (3.8%) intraprocedural complication was encountered whereby the stent failed to open despite several attempts and was exchanged with a new one without issues. No in-hospital postprocedure stroke, TIA, or mortality was reported. During a mean 16.2 ± 13.6 months' follow up, two patients developed symptomatic in-stent restenosis that was treated with balloon angioplasty. We report the first case series of Resolute Onyx drug-eluting stenting including 30-day postprocedure stroke/TIA rates and clinical/radiographic follow up and demonstrate safe and effective treatment of symptomatic and asymptomatic VA ostial stenosis.

Abstract 12089: Right Coronary Artery Aneurysm in Takayasu Arteritis

Background: Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a large vessel vasculitis that affects the aorta and its primary branches. The coronary arteries are uncommonly involved. Case Presentation: A 52-year-old man, with a history of TA not on immune suppressants due to recurrent active miliary tuberculosis, was scheduled for open abdominal repair of a multilobulated saccular thoracoabdominal aneurysm. Cardiology was consulted for pre-operative evaluation. His physical exam and EKG were unremarkable. Imaging of his coronaries with CT angiography showed proximal and distal right coronary artery dilation (14 mm) and a intraluminal thrombus. Revascularization surgically or percutaneously was not advised. Additional vascular interventions were postponed until the patient received adequate treatment for his tuberculosis and uncontrolled TA. The patient was started on ASA and warfarin for the intraluminal thrombus and coronary aneurysm. Discussion: Coronary artery aneurysms are rare in TA. When coronaries are involved, ostial stenosis or occlusion is the most common lesion. Invasive coronary angiography is difficult due to diffuse vascular disease and involvement of the aorta. The imaging modality of choice remains a debate. CT angiograms remain a reasonable option for the assessment of coronary involvement. There is no established guideline for the treatment of coronary thrombus in patients with TA. Because coronary aneurysms promote thrombus formation by stasis and abnormal flow conditions, it is reasonable to treat with ASA combined with warfarin as they do in Kawasaki disease. Conclusion: Although rare in TA, coronary aneurysm formation is possible. A coronary angiogram is technically difficult in this group of patients, and CT angiograms remains a safe option to define coronary anatomy. The treatment guidelines are lacking, and ASA combined with warfarin is a reasonable option to reduce myocardial infarction and death.

Evaluation of Long-Term Outcomes of Crossover or Focal Ostial Stenting of Left Anterior Descending Artery Ostial Stenosis

Optimal management of patients with ostial left anterior descending artery stenosis remains an unresolved issue. Patients with ostial left anterior descending stenosis who underwent stent implantation were included in this study. Coronary records of all patients were monitored, and long-term clinical outcomes were recorded. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the stenting method: focal left anterior descending stenting [ostial stenting group] and stenting from the left main coronary artery to the left anterior descending [crossover stenting group]. Of the 97 eligible consecutive patients, 56 were treated with ostial stenting and 41 with crossover stenting. At a mean follow-up of 23.6 ± 12.6 months, non-fatal myocardial infarction (3.9% vs. 12.8%, P=.118), target lesion revascularization (5.9% vs. 12.8%, P=.252), and all-cause death (2.0% vs. 7.7%, P=.191) rates were not statistically significant. However, the rate of major adverse cardiovascular events defined as a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, target lesion revascularization, or all-cause death was significantly higher in the crossover stenting group (8.2% vs. 28.2%, P = .013). In the multiple regression analysis, left main coronary artery diameter (odds ratio = 4.506; 95% CI: 1.225-16.582, P = .024) and application of the crossover stenting technique (odds ratio = 5.126; 95% CI: 1.325-19.833, P = .018) were found to be the most effective predictors of major adverse cardiovascular events. In our study, the ostial stenting group was associated with better clinical outcomes in the treatment of ostial left anterior descending stenosis. However, it is notappropriate to apply a single method to all patients with such lesions.

A balloon-supported embolism protection technique during vertebral/subclavian artery angioplasty stenting.

A balloon-supported embolism protection technique during vertebral/subclavian artery angioplasty stenting.

Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Patients With Atherosclerotic Renovascular Disease-Induced Resistant Hypertension: Further Considerations for 24-Hour BloodPressure Profiles.

Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Patients With Atherosclerotic Renovascular Disease-Induced Resistant Hypertension: Further Considerations for 24-Hour BloodPressure Profiles.

Surgical Ostioplasty of the Left Main Coronary Artery: An Alternative to Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in the Treatment of Left Main Stem Isolated Ostial Stenosis—A Case Series

This study aims to demonstrate the use of surgical ostioplasty of the left main coronary artery as an alternative technique to the conventional use of coronary artery bypass grafting for the treatment of left main stem-isolated ostial stenosis. From 2002 to 2021, five patients—three women (60%) and two men (40%)—presented with a history of angina pectoris and were diagnosed with isolated stenosis of the coronary ostia associated with normal distal coronary arteries. Pre-operative cardiac catheterization and echocardiography were performed to aid in the diagnosis. The patients were submitted to surgical ostioplasty with a posterior approach using a saphenous patch. There were no hospital deaths or myocardial infarctions during the post-operative period. The mean cardiopulmonary bypass time was 82 min (range, 70–95 min), and the mean aortic-clamp time was 62 min (range, 55–75 min). The average time of hospitalization was 6.2 days (range, 4–18 days). Patients with isolated stenosis of the coronary ostia associated with normal distal coronary arteries may be submitted to left main coronary artery ostioplasty as an alternative to coronary artery bypass grafting, the traditional surgical technique for this pathology.

Simultaneous angiographic and instantaneous wave-free ratio co-registration assisted with intravascular ultrasound for optimal assessment of left main coronary artery ostial stenosis and optimization of the angioplasty effect.

Simultaneous angiographic and instantaneous wave-free ratio co-registration assisted with intravascular ultrasound for optimal assessment of left main coronary artery ostial stenosis and optimization of the angioplasty effect.

Reply to Letter to the Editor: "Management of Coronary Ostial Stenosis with Drug Coated Balloons: Technicaland Clinical Aspects".

Reply to Letter to the Editor: "Management of Coronary Ostial Stenosis with Drug Coated Balloons: Technicaland Clinical Aspects".

Role of mitomycin-C to reduce post FESS adhesion and ostial stenosis

The aim of this study is to determine adhesion formation rate and antrostomy closure rate after the use of Mitomycin-C in patients underwent FESS. This is a prospective case control study conducted at ENT Department Lyari General Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. Fifty one patients included with diagnosis of bilateral chronic rhinosinusitis or allergic fungal sinusitis and were the surgical candidate, underwent bilateral Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). The patients were evaluated using Lund-Mackay staging system prior to surgery. At the completion of surgery Mitomycin-c (MMC) was applied in one nasal cavity the other nasal cavity served as a control. Among fifty one patients both nostrils were used hence we have 51 cases and 51 controls. The patients were followed for a minimum period of three months after surgery. Subjective improvement of symptoms were recorded as well as rigid nasoendoscpic examination was also performed regularly. The adhesion formation rate in MMC applied nasal cavities was 11.7% as compared to 64.7% of controls. The middle meatal antrostomy closure rate was 41% and 5% in controls and MMC applied group respectively. Hence mitomycin-c application has shown benefit in reducing post FESS ostial stenosis and adhesion formation between middle turbinate and lateral nasal wall. Application of Mitomycin-C has impact on reducing post FESS adhesion formation and middle meatal antrostomy closure.

P.118 Radial to femoral “through and through” access for high grade ostial subclavian and innominate artery stenoses: a novel technique

Background: Endovascular approaches are typically preferred to open surgical techniques for symptomatic subclavian/innominate artery stenosis. Due to individual patient anatomy, endovascular treatment from a conventional femoral arterial approach can be technically challenging. Our alternative technique using a combined radial to femoral artery approach can facilitate an otherwise challenging revascularization procedure. Methods: Retrospective analysis between November 2017 to March 2021 yielded five procedures (in four patients) using a combined radial to femoral “through and through” access and stenting technique. Results: All patients presented with hypoperfusion symptoms, either to their extremities, brain, or both. Technical success was achieved in 100% of the five vessels treated in four patients with symptomatic subclavian/innominate artery stenosis using this approach. One of the patients developed a recurrent stenosis after 40 months, requiring a repeat procedure. Three patients received treatment to the left subclavian artery and one to the innominate artery. All of the patients experienced marked symptomatic improvement without significant complications. Conclusions: A combined radial to femoral “through and through” access technique is a simple and safe method to achieve successful recanalization of high grade symptomatic ostial stenoses of the subclavian and innominate arteries.

P63 OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY–ANGIO CO–REGISTRATION (OCT–ACR) OF LEFT ANTERIOR DESCENDING IN PATIENT WITH ONGOING ANIGNA

Abstract We share the case of a 50–year old man, with no cardiovascular risk factor, presented in ER with ongoing angina and positive exercise stress testing. No clinical evidence of heart failure. EKG and echocardiogram was negative. He was referred for invasive coronary angiography, that showed severe stenosis of mid–LAD and moderate ostial LAD stenosis. Subsequent Optical Coherence Tomography–Angio Co–Registration (OCT–ACR) of Left Anterior Descending was performed. An EBU3.5 guiding catheter was engaged in the left coronary artery, and 8000 units of heparin administered. After a pre–dilatation with a semi–compliant balloon of mid LAD, a plaque rupture with thrombus was documented at mid–LAD and a fibro–lipidic plaque with a severe flow limitation (MLA&amp;lt;4mm2) at the ostium, with no involvement of left main (Fig. 1b). Pre–dilatation with SC and NC balloon (2.5–3.5mm) was performed and then stented with a 4.0 × 26 mm DES. Finally, OCT confirmed correct stent expansion, achieving an excellent angiographic result, without carina shifting and compromise of the circ. Patient was discharged, asymptomatic. OCT–ACR guided PCI, taking advantage of its high spatial resolution, permits to plain better the PCI, establish correct stent size, evaluate early complications especially if left main or bifurcation are involved and thanks to co–registration also measurement of long axis of the vessel are facilitated.

P322 A MISLEADING SAM

Abstract A 66–year–old woman with a history of anxious–depressive syndrome and osteoporosis, without significant cardiological history, reported onset of cardiopalmus and dyspnoea for a few days due to moderate efforts, in conjunction with a period of strong emotional stress. Due to the persistence of these symptoms and the onset of epigastric pain, she underwent a cardiological examination which found low blood pressure values associated with the presence of a systolic murmur. The ECG showed diffuse changes in repolarization compatible with ischemia. Access to the emergency room (ER) was recommended. In ER, the first high–sensitivity troponin value was significantly high (1542 ng/L). Therefore, in the suspect of ACS, the patient was transferred to the cardiological intensive care unit. Echocardiogram showed akinesia of the mid–apical segments, hypercontractility of the bases (EF 35%) and a SAM (systolic anterior motion) with a dynamic outflow tract pressure gradient of 80 mmHg which resulted in severe mitral regurgitation. During the first days of hospitalization, persistent hypotension was observed requiring intravenous infusion of fluids to maintain systolic blood pressure values between 90–100 mmHg. Coronary angiography showed only severe ostial stenosis of a branch of the first diagonal branch. At the same time, ventriculography was performed which showed basal hypercontractility with muscle salience at the base and systolic obliteration of the outflow tract with a small apical aneurysm. 5 days after admission, another echocardiogram showed the almost complete normalization of the global systolic function (EF 68%) with apical hypokinesia and hypercontractility of the basal segments. However, the SAM persisted with a dynamic outflow tract pressure gradient of 140 mmHg with the presence of multiple and dislocated papillaries, accessory tendon cords and insertion of muscle tendon at the level of the septum. To complete the diagnosis, cardiac MRI was performed which documented a diffuse increase in T2 relaxation times more evident in the apical area, absence of LGE areas and normalization of contractility of the left ventricle with disappearance of the SAM. These findings, together with the absence of significant hypertrophy and the complete regression of the ECGgraphic changes, allowed us to exclude the presence of an unrecognized hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and to diagnose Takotsubo syndrome.

Impact of Coronary Artery Anatomy in Arterial Switch Operation: In-hospital and Post-discharge Outcomes.

The influence of the coronary artery anatomy on the prognosis of patients receiving an arterial switch operation (ASO) is currently controversial, and the risk factors for this operation may change in more complicated patients. This study aimed to investigate the influence of coronary artery anomalies on the in-hospital and post-discharge outcomes of ASO in patients with transposition of the great arteries (TGA) and Taussig-Bing anomaly (TBA). We retrospectively reviewed 206 patients who underwent ASO from January 2007 to December 2019. The median age at operation was 33 [interquartile range (IQR): 20-71] days. Median follow-up time was 7.2 years (IQR: 4.0-10.3 years). Coronary anomalies were present in 86 patients (41.7%), with 9 (4.4%) of them having a single coronary artery. Additional coronary features included intramural courses in 5 (2.4%) patients, ostial stenosis in 1 (0.5%) patient, and accessory coronary artery orifices in 5 (2.4%) patients. There were 32 (15.5%) in-hospital deaths and 8 (4.6%) post-discharge deaths, yielding an overall survival of 81.3%, 80.7% and 79.9% at 1, 5 and 10 years, respectively. Mortality due to ASO has been drastically decreased since 2013. Patients with a single coronary artery had higher rate of in-hospital mortality, but this finding was not statistically significant. The earlier surgical era (OR: 2.756) and a longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR: 2.336) were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality, while coronary patterns were not. An intramural coronary artery (HR: 10.034) and a patient age of older than 1 year at the time of ASO (HR: 9.706) were independent predictors of post-discharge mortality. ASO remains the procedure of choice for TGA with coronary anomalies with acceptable in-hospital and post-discharge outcomes in terms of overall survival and freedom of reoperation. However, intramural coronary artery is an independent risk factor for post-discharge mortality. Timely surgery within the 1st year of life helps improve overall midterm survival of ASO.