Percutaneous coronary interventions and cardiovascular outcomes for patients with chronic total occlusions.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to assess the benefits of a coronary chronic total occlusion CTO recanalization after adjusting for the case-mix and the propensity to undergo the CTO intervention in a population of patients with stable coronary artery disease. BACKGROUND: The benefits of percutaneous recanalization of CTO are disputed. METHODS: In 1,602 patients with a least one CTO and treated by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), we derived a propensity score to undergo a CTO recanalization by comparing the characteristics of patients who did (n = 346) and did not (n = 1,256) undergo a CTO PCI attempt. Among the patients who underwent a CTO PCI attempt, we identified the angiographic predictors of failure. The primary analysis was ultimately performed by looking at the association between the outcome of the CTO recanalization and the survival free of death and cardiovascular rehospitalizations. Sensitivity analyses were performed by adjusting for the propensity to undergo a CTO recanalization, for the anatomical predictors of failure, and for the extent of coronary artery revascularization achieved. RESULTS: A successful CTO recanalization was not significantly associated with survival free of death and cardiovascular rehospitalization (HR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.64-1.25). Even more conservative hazards ratio point estimates were obtained with the sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS: Successful percutaneous CTO recanalization is not associated with survival free of death and cardiovascular hospitalizations in a contemporary population of patients with symptomatic coronary artery disease.

Typical and reverse Takotsubo syndromes as initial manifestations of consecutive Addisonian crises in a 38-year-old patient: the heart has its reasons!

We report an interesting case of a 38-year-old woman presenting with reverse Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) secondary to an Addisonian crisis, her second such episode. A few years prior, she had presented with typical TTS in the setting of Addisonian crisis; diagnostic work-up revealing Auto-Immune Polyglandular Syndrome Type II (APS II). We believe this to be the first case report of typical and variant phenotypes of TTS in a patient with APS II. The pathogenic link between these two conditions is explored. In patients presenting with Addisonian crises and refractory shock, the possibility of concurrent TTS should be considered. TTS muddies the diagnostic waters and poses therapeutic challenges as outlined.

Unique triad of shunts in a patient with paroxysmal palpitations!

We present the case of a 34-year-old woman with a rare constellation of congenital cardiovascular defects. She presented with new-onset dyspnoea on exertion and intermittent palpitations. Extensive cardiac workup revealed anomalous drainage of the inferior vena cava and a large secundum atrial septal defect. She underwent surgical repair. Intraoperatively, an additional congenital venous anomaly was discovered, a partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection. Specifically, the right inferior pulmonary vein connected to the inferior vena cava, and together, they drained into the left atrium. On conducting a thorough literature review, we believe this is the first reported case in an adult female.

Severe obstructive sleep apnoea, aortic dissection and aortopulmonary fistula in a 56-year-old patient with syncope.

We present a case of a 56-year-old patient with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) presenting with acute decompensated heart failure and signs of cardiogenic shock. Echocardiography and CT imaging led to the diagnosis of acute type A aortic dissection (AD) complicated by aortopulmonary fistula (APF). The patient underwent successful surgical repair with complicated postoperative course including pulseless electrical activity arrest. This case highlights the underappreciated role of untreated OSA as a risk factor for AD. Furthermore, it presents an opportunity to review APFs as a rare complication of AD. We discuss the available evidence linking OSA and AD, review currently reported cases of APF, briefly outline the haemodynamics of this acute left-to-right shunt and discuss management of this rare but deadly complication.

Perfect storm along the neuro-cardiac axis: stroke complicated by acute biventricular dysfunction-Takotsubo syndrome or neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy?

Acute biventricular dysfunction complicating acute ischaemic stroke poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges with respect to anticoagulation and short-term and long-term prognosis. We present the uncommon case of an elderly patient presenting with this clinical scenario, who made a full recovery on conservative therapy. Management strategies are discussed and the emerging topic of neuro-cardiac syndromes, namely neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy as distinct from Takotsubo syndrome, is explored.

ALCAPA and ASD Secundum Unmasked by Severe Postpartum Haemorrhage Complicated by Heart Failure.

Abnormal Left Coronary Artery from Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA) is a rare congenital coronary anomaly in which the left main coronary artery arises from the pulmonary trunk, resulting in a left to right shunt. ALCAPA is associated with septal defects and patent ductus arteriosus. The case discussed had a secundum atrial septal defect. Sudden cardiac death is a feared complication. We discuss the hemodynamics of this shunt combination and outline its management, emphasizing shunt hemodynamics during pregnancy. This case highlights that pregnant patients with ALCAPA are at high risk and require optimal peri- and postpartum care. After surgical establishment of dual coronary circulation, patients have carried subsequent pregnancies to term.

L'ALCAPA est une anomalie coronarienne congénitale rare caractérisée par la naissance de l'artère coronaire gauche du tronc pulmonaire, qui entraîne un shunt gauche-droit. L'ALCAPA est associée à des malformations septales et une persistance du canal artériel. Le cas sur lequel nous nous sommes penchés avait une communication interauriculaire (CIA) de type ostium secundum. La mort subite d'origine cardiaque est la complication redoutée. Nous nous penchons sur l'hémodynamique de la combinaison de ce shunt et décrivons sa prise en charge, notamment celle de l'hémodynamique du shunt au cours de la grossesse. Ce cas illustre que les patientes enceintes qui ont une ALCAPA sont exposées à un risque élevé et qu'elles ont besoin de soins optimaux avant et après l'accouchement. Après l'établissement chirurgical de la circulation coronarienne double, les patientes ont mené à terme les grossesses subséquentes.

Non-compaction cardiomyopathy, Becker muscular dystrophy, neuropathy and recurrent syncope.

We present the case of a 50-year-old man presenting with new heart failure symptoms. He had no evidence of any ischaemic cardiomyopathy, however, further cardiac imaging showed a left ventricular non-compaction cardiomyopathy. He was noted to have muscular weakness and an exhaustive search for associated comorbidities yielded a diagnosis of Becker muscular dystrophy. In this report, we review the pathophysiology, comorbidities and diagnostic workup in patients presenting with left ventricular non-compaction in the context of dystrophinopathy. Ultimately, we suggest the consideration of rare cardiomyopathies in all patients presenting with neuromuscular syndromes and vice versa.

Hypertensive crisis precatheter ablation for resistant atrial fibrillation: a case of undiagnosed bilateral pheochromocytomas.

A 63-year-old man with hypertension was referred for catheter ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation. He was diagnosed with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation approximately 6 years prior. Over the previous 12 months, his atrial fibrillation had become persistent despite medication optimisation for rate control and elective cardioversion. Sinus rhythm was restored briefly. The decision was made to pursue catheter ablation and isolation of the pulmonary veins. On anaesthetic induction, the patient suffered from a hypertensive crisis. The procedure was aborted, and the patient was admitted to hospital for investigations of secondary hypertension. Ultimately, the patient was diagnosed with bilateral pheochromocytomas. This case outlines the diagnostic challenges and cardiac comorbidities associated with bilateral pheochromocytomas.

Loeys-Dietz syndrome and isolated severe ostial left main coronary stenosis presenting as ventricular fibrillation arrest and biventricular takotsubo syndrome in a 25-year-old patient.

We present the case of a previously healthy 25-year-old woman who presented with an out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation arrest. Postresuscitation ECG did not show any evidence of ST segment elevation. Echocardiogram showed regional wall abnormalities in keeping with takotsubo syndrome (TTS). Urgent coronary angiogram to rule out malignant congenital coronary artery anomaly revealed an isolated severe ostial left main coronary artery (LMCA) stenosis, a rare disease, approximately 0.2% in previous case series. The LMCA was aneurysmal. Genetic studies revealed a novel frameshift pathogenic variant in the transforming growth factor B two ligand gene (TGFB2) gene, suggestive of Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) type 4, an aggressive vascular disease. Ostial LMCA stenosis has not been previously reported in LDS, and we outline the management of this unique disease combination. We also reflect on its presentation as TTS and infer that TTS and acute coronary syndromes are not mutually exclusive.

Stolen from the coronaries: Left-to-Left shunts presenting as chest pain syndrome!

We present the case of a 61-year-old woman with chest pain syndrome. Cardiac catheterisation did not reveal atherosclerotic coronary disease. However, a haemodynamically significant fistula connecting the left coronary artery to the left atrial appendage was found to be the culprit through a left-to-left shunting mechanism. In this report, we review the pathophysiology of coronary artery fistulas and the mechanism by which these fistulas may lead to 'coronary steal syndrome'. Indications for interventional and surgical management are outlined. Ultimately, we suggest the consideration of coronary artery fistulas in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with chest pain.

Takotsubo syndrome unmasking malignant coronary artery anomaly in a patient presenting with acute coronary syndrome: Expanding definitions of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy?

The simultaneous occurrence of Takotsubo syndrome, congenital coronary artery anomaly and severe coronary artery disease is a rare clinical triad. This case report highlights the intricacies of management of this 'triple jeopardy' scenario.

Myocarditis and Raw Meat Consumption: Strange Bedfellows!

Trichinellosis is a parasitic infection that is associated with the consumption of raw meat. The specific genotype Trichinella nativa has been found in raw bear meat. The most common genotype that has been linked with myocarditis is T spiralis. We present a case of T nativa myocarditis secondary to consumption of raw bear meat. The clinical manifestations as well as therapy of this specific genotype is outlined.

Incidental Acute ST Elevation Due to Cannabis-Induced Myocarditis After a Mechanical Fall.

We present the case of a young male with an orthopedic injury after a mechanical fall, who developed atypical chest pain associated with ST elevation and elevated biomarkers suggestive of myocardial injury. He was found to have myocarditis on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging that we postulate was secondary to inhalation of marijuana. Cannabis-induced myocarditis and its potential complications are a health hazard that is bound to grow with the legalization of marijuana use in many countries.

Nous présentons ici le cas d'un jeune homme souffrant d'une lésion orthopédique subie après une chute mécanique, qui a développé une douleur thoracique atypique associée à une élévation du segment ST et à des biomarqueurs élevés évocateurs d'une lésion myocardique. L'imagerie par résonance magnétique cardiaque a révélé qu'il souffrait d'une myocardite que nous supposons être consécutive à l'inhalation de marijuana. La myocardite induite par le cannabis et ses complications potentielles constituent un risque pour la santé qui ne peut que croître avec la légalisation de l'usage de la marijuana dans de nombreux pays.

Safety Profile of Liver FibroScan in Patients with Cardiac Pacemakers or Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators.

Background. Emerging evidence suggests that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with coronary artery diseases and arrhythmias. The FibroScan (Echosens, France), a widely available, noninvasive device, is able to detect liver fibrosis and steatosis within this patient population. However, the FibroScan is currently contraindicated in patients with cardiac pacemakers (PM) or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD). Objective. To determine the safety profile of FibroScan testing in patients with PM or ICD. Methods. Consecutive outpatients undergoing routine device interrogations at a tertiary level teaching hospital underwent simultaneous liver stiffness measurements. PM or ICD performance data, device types, patient demographics, medical history, and previous laboratory and conventional liver imaging results were collected. Results. Analysis of 107 subjects with 33 different types of implanted cardiac devices, from 5 different companies (Medtronic, Sorin, ELA Medical, Boston Scientific, and St. Jude), did not demonstrate any adverse events as defined by abnormal device sensing/pacing or ICD firing. This population included high risk subjects undergoing active pacing (n = 53) and with right pectoral PM placement (n = 1). None of the subjects had any clinical signs of decompensated congestive heart failure or cirrhosis during the exam. Conclusion. TE with FibroScan can be safely performed in patients with PM or ICD.

A 58-year-old woman with hypoxia, hypoxaemia, a hole in the heart and a herring! Intracardiac or extracardiac shunt? That is the question!

We describe a case of a previously healthy 58-year-old woman who presented with gradual onset shortness of breath on exertion, erythrocytosis, hypoxia and hypoxaemia. Initial investigations revealed a normal chest radiography and pulmonary function test, however, there was an isolated reduction in diffusion capacity. She was subsequently found to have a patent foramen ovale (PFO) with intermittent shunting. A contrast echocardiography study hinted towards an extracardiac shunt. No shunt was detected in spite of using advanced imaging techniques. A lung biopsy was ultimately performed and histopathology revealed diffuse microvascular pulmonary arteriovenous malformations. This is one of few cases reported of this rare vascular abnormality and highlights its strong genetic association with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia. The diagnostic challenges and management of this unique condition are reviewed in detail.

A rare cause of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: primary pericardial mesothelioma masquerading as pericardial constriction.

We present a case of a 30-year-old woman with a history of HIV and hepatitis C who sought medical attention because of severe oedema of the lower limbs and abdomen. CT of the chest showed a thickened pericardium, and cardiac catheterisation demonstrated constrictive physiology. She underwent pericardiectomy, but the procedure was unsuccessful because the pericardium was densely adherent to the myocardium. After consultation with several pathologists, she was diagnosed with primary pericardial mesothelioma (PPM), an exceedingly rare cardiac tumour with a fatal prognosis. She died within 3 months of presentation. The details of the case as well as pertinent literature are reviewed.

Intraoperative myocardial infarction: Kounis syndrome provoked by latex allergy.

We report the case of a 43-year-old man with anaphylactic shock and concurrent ST-elevation myocardial infarction during a planned inguinal hernia surgery. This event occurred shortly after introduction of latex into the surgical field. Coronary angiography revealed a 70% occlusive lesion in the right coronary artery. Further discussion with the patient revealed a potential latex allergy. Skin prick testing showed marked sensitisation to latex. The patient was subsequently diagnosed with the type II variant of Kounis syndrome.