ABSTRACT
Background: Myocardial ischemia occurs in the setting of inadequate or complete cessation of blood supply to the myocardium. While atherosclerosis is the most common cause; other causes have been identified. Rare cases can be caused by extrinsic compression of the coronaries by a dilated pulmonary artery (PA) or by mechanical obstruction from nearby chest tubes or drains. We present two cases of myocardial ischemia-driven malignant arrhythmia leading to cardiac arrest caused by obstruction of the coronary blood flow from external compression. Case Description: In the first case, venous bypass graft compression from a chest tube postoperatively was noted and in the second case left main coronary artery (LMCA) compression from a dilated PA secondary to pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) was seen. Diagnosis of these two cases was made via emergent coronary angiogram and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and treated by placing a drug eluting stent (DES) in LMCA compression and by adjusting the chest tube and placing a DES in the venous bypass graft with the restoration of flow. We also review the available literature regarding the incidence, diagnosis, and management of this rare entity. Conclusions: Overall, extrinsic compression of the coronaries is rare, therefore clinicians need to be aware of this infrequent process, to allow for appropriate diagnosis, management, and to prevent excess morbidity and mortality from this rare complication.
ABSTRACT
Incidental discovery of sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SV-ASD) in the elderly is rare. This defect allows for lead malpositioning during pacemaker placement and can lead to catastrophic cardioembolic events. Post-pacemaker implantation, chest radiography should be obtained to detect malpositioning early, and if detected, lead adjustment is recommended; if identified later, treatment with an anticoagulant is feasible. SV-ASD repair may be considered as well.
ABSTRACT
Leadless pacing systems have revolutionized the field of electrophysiology given its low complication rates and almost non-existent rate of infections compared with traditional pacemakers. These devices boast resistance to infections given its unique features; however, as described in this report, device-related infection from these leadless devices is still possible. In patients with leadless pacing system that is persistently bacteremic in the future, evaluation of the device with transesophageal echocardiogram or intracardiac echocardiography should be performed, and if vegetation is noted on the device, device extraction should highly be considered, along with empiric intravenous antibiotics. Lastly, new leadless device should not be re-implanted within 2 weeks of the removal of the infected device to prevent seeding of the new device.
ABSTRACT
As cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) become more prevalent, it is important to acknowledge potential electromagnetic interference (EMI) from other sources, such as internal and external electronic devices and procedures and its effect on these devices. EMI from other sources can potentially inhibit pacing and trigger shocks in permanent pacemakers (PPM) and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD), respectively. This review analyzes potential EMI amongst CIED and left ventricular assist device, deep brain stimulators, spinal cord stimulators, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators, and throughout an array of procedures, such as endoscopy, bronchoscopy, and procedures involving electrocautery. Although there is evidence to support EMI from internal and external devices and during procedures, there is a lack of large multicenter studies, and, as a result, current management guidelines are based primarily on expert opinion and anecdotal experience. We aim to provide a general overview of PPM/ICD function, review documented EMI effect on these devices, and acknowledge current management of CIED interference.
ABSTRACT
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM), also known as stress cardiomyopathy, occurs in the setting of catecholamine surge from an acute stressor. This cardiomyopathy mimics acute myocardial infarction in the absence of coronary disease. The classic feature of TCM is regional wall motion abnormalities with characteristic ballooning of the left ventricle. The etiology of the stressor is often physical or emotional stress, however iatrogenic causes of TCM have been reported in the literature. In our review, we discuss medications, primarily the exogenous administration of catecholamines, and a wide array of procedures with subsequent development of iatrogenic cardiomyopathy. TCM is unique in that it is transient and has favorable outcomes in most individuals. Classically, beta-blockers and ACE-inhibitors have been prescribed in individuals with cardiomyopathy; however, unique to TCM, no specific treatment is required other than temporary supportive measures as this process is transient. Additionally, no improvement in mortality or recurrence have been reported in patients on these drugs. The aim of this review is to elucidate on the iatrogenic causes of TCM, allowing for prompt recognition and management by clinicians.
ABSTRACT
Myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary artery (MINOCA) accounts for 5-6% of all acute coronary syndrome presentations. Common causes of MINOCA include coronary vasospasm, coronary embolism/thrombosis, myocarditis, and spontaneous coronary artery dissection. Of them all, myocarditis is the most common cause of MINOCA, accounting for up-to 33% of all MINOCA cases. Our case is a 36-year-old female that presented with chest pain. Her electrocardiogram was concerning for myocardial infarction. However, coronary angiography revealed non-obstructive coronaries hence MINOCA. Cardiac magnetic resonance confirmed the underlying etiology of MINOCA as myocarditis. The patient was treated with risk factor modifications, heart failure therapy, and anti-inflammatories for her myocarditis. Follow up with cardiology noted improvement in her ejection fraction and symptoms.
