The LAV is a strong and independent predictor of POAF. Risk stratification using LAV and age enables clinicians to identify high-risk patients before cardiac surgery.
Primary antiphospholipid antibody (PAP) syndrome can present with a variety of clinical manifestations including cardiac valvular lesions. Prior reports of the valvular lesions associated with PAP have been nonspecific. The purpose of this paper is to present four cases of patients with documented PAP and demonstrate the characteristic transesophageal echocardiographic features. The primary feature is focal, symmetrical, nodular thickening at the leaflet's coaptation points.
Background
The prevalence of both chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) and its risk factors is alarming in Saudi Arabia and only a minority of patients achieve optimal medical management. Context-specific CCS guidelines outlining best clinical practices are therefore needed to address local gaps and challenges.
Consensus panel
A panel of experts representing the Saudi Heart Association (SHA) reviewed existing evidence and formulated guidance relevant to local clinical practice considering the characteristics of the Saudi population, the Saudi healthcare system, its resources and medical expertise. They were reviewed by external experts to ensure scientific and medical accuracy.
Consensus findings
Recommendations are provided on the clinical assessment and management of CCS, along with supporting evidence. Risk reduction through non-pharmacological therapy (lifestyle modifications) remains at the core of CCS management. Great emphasis should be placed on the use of available pharmacological options (anti-anginal therapy and event prevention) only as appropriate and necessary. Lifestyle counseling and pharmacological strategy must be optimized before considering revascularization, unless otherwise indicated. Revascularization strategies should be carefully considered by the Heart Team to ensure the appropriate choice is made in accordance to current guidelines and patient preference.
Conclusion
Conscientious, multidisciplinary, and personalized clinical management is necessary to navigate the complex landscape of CCS in Saudi Arabia considering its population and resource differences. The reconciliation of international evidence and local characteristics is critical for the improvement of healthcare outcomes among CCS patients in Saudi Arabia.
Introduction
Coronary artery fistula (CAF) is a rare cardiac anomaly that typically presents as a continuous murmur in an otherwise asymptomatic patient. Occasionally, it can result in congestive heart failure or bacterial endocarditis.
Objective
To better delineate the course of coronary artery fistula using an intracoronary injection of SonoVue contrast agent, while performing transthoracic echocardiography.
Method and results
A referred 46‐year‐old man, with a history of exertional dyspnea for almost 3 months, was admitted to the hospital with progressive dyspnea and assessed under suspicion of CAF. CAF was seen with a coronary angiogram, but the exact entry point in the left ventricle or left atrial wall could not be determined. CT angiography also failed to establish the drainage site, so CAG (coronary angiography) was repeated with the SonoVue contrast agent injected into LM (Left main) while using a Siemens echocardiography machine. Multiple views were obtained during the injection and revealed unusual flow in the left ventricle just below the PML (posterior mitral leaflet) and passing through the fistula to LV.
Conclusion
Contrast‐enhanced echocardiography by direct intracoronary injection of SonoVue contrast agent is safe and can aid in the delineation of fistula drainage.
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