Subepicardial aneurysm evaluated by multiplane 2D and real-time 3D volumetric transesophageal echocardiography

Subepicardial aneurysm with free wall rupture and its successful surgical intervention: a case report

Background

Subepicardial aneurysm (SEA) is an uncommon but potentially fatal complication of acute myocardial infarction (MI) associated with an increased risk of free wall rupture (FWR) leading to sudden death. We describe a rare case of a silent myocardial infarction complicated by SEA and subsequent FWR, resulting in cardiac tamponade.

Case summary

A 68-year-old man with no previous chest symptoms presented with syncope. Cardiac computed tomography incidentally revealed a small aneurysmal cavity at the inferolateral wall of the left ventricle, which was overlooked on initial transthoracic echocardiography. Coronary angiography demonstrated a narrowed first obtuse marginal branch with coronary slow flow, suggesting that spontaneous recanalization of the occluded obtuse marginal branch induced SEA and subsequent FWR. The patient underwent an emergency left ventricular aneurysm repair. The post-operative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged from the hospital on post-operative day 20.

Discussion

This case emphasizes the importance of prompt detection and surgical intervention for SEA. Subepicardial aneurysm should be suspected in patients with pericardial effusion and suspected MI. Cardiac computed tomography is not only useful in the detection of such cases but also facilitates the development of a successful surgical strategy.

Left ventricular rupture after embolic myocardial infarction due to mitral valve endocarditis

We report a very rare case of a 43-year-old patient with fatal left ventricular subepicardial aneurysm rupture complicating embolic myocardial infarction due to mitral valve infective endocarditis.

Cardiac CT and MRI guide surgery in impending left ventricular rupture after acute myocardial infarction

We report the case of a 67 year-old patient who presented with worsening chest pain and shortness of breath, four days post acute myocardial infarction. Contrast enhanced computed tomography of the chest ruled out a pulmonary embolus but revealed an unexpected small subepicardial aneurysm (SEA) in the lateral left ventricular wall which was confirmed on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Intraoperative palpation of the left lateral wall was guided by the cardiac MRI and CT findings and confirmed the presence of focally thinned and weakened myocardium, covered by epicardial fat. An aneurysmorrhaphy was subsequently performed in addition to coronary bypass surgery and a mitral valve repair. The patient was discharged home on post operative day eight in good condition and is feeling well 2 years after surgery.