Left ventricular pseudoaneurysm formation: Two cases and review of the literature

World J Clin Cases. 2014 Oct 16;2(10):581-6. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v2.i10.581.

Abstract

Left ventricular wall rupture (LVWR) comprises a complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Acute LVWR is a fatal condition, unless the formation of a pseudoaneurysm occurs. Several risk factors have been described, predisposing to LVWR. High index of suspicion and imaging techniques, namely echocardiography and computed tomography, are the cornerstones of timely diagnosis of the condition. As LVWR usually leads to death, emergency surgery is the treatment of choice, resulting in significant reduction in mortality and providing favorable short-term outcomes and adequate prognosis during late follow-up. Herein, we present two patients who were diagnosed with LVWR following AMI, and subsequent pseudoaneurysm formation. In parallel, we review the aforementioned condition.

Keywords: Left ventricle rupture; Myocardial infarction; Pseudoaneurysm.

Publication types

  • Case Reports