Iatrogenic coronary ostial stenosis of left main stem following aortic valve replacement: visualization with optical coherence tomography

Abstract

Iatrogenic coronary ostial stenosis following aortic valve replacement (AVR) occurs in up to 3.4% of cases and usually presents within the first 6months following surgery. We present the case of an 85year old man who developed an acute coronary syndrome 2months following AVR. Coronary angiography revealed a severe de novo lesion in the left main stem, which, on optical coherence tomography, was shown to be due to severe intimal hyperplasia. The most likely underlying mechanism is vessel wall trauma caused by the rigid tip cannula used for administration of cardioplegia solution. Surgeons should be aware of this possibility when administering this solution via the antegrade approach.

Keywords: Iatrogenic coronary ostial stenosis; Optical Coherence Tomography.