Manual aspiration of iatrogenic embolization through a left internal mammary artery graft.
Embolization during diagnostic catheterization is rare. When it occurs, angiographers need to recognize and treat it immediately. Mechanical removal of the embolized material may help restore flow promptly and salvage myocardium. We describe two cases of iatrogenic embolization into the internal mammary artery grafts resulting in left anterior descending artery occlusion, and describe how prompt intervention by catheter aspiration prevented anterior myocardial infarction.
Kalyanasundaram
Arun
A
Department of Cardiology, Geisinger Health System, 100 N. Academy Avenue, Danville, PA 17822, USA. arunksundaram@gmail.com
Scott
Thomas D
TD
Blankenship
James C
JC
D000368:Aged; D006328:Cardiac Catheterization; D004617:Embolism / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006083:Graft Occlusion, Vascular / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease; D008297:Male; D008323:Mammary Arteries; D008875:Middle Aged; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000517:prevention & control; D013396:Suction / Q000379:methods; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D058017:Vascular Grafting / Q000009:adverse effects*