A case report of markedly calcified left atrium in combined valvular disease
Matsuwaka, R.; Onishi, K.; Hata, S.; Ohkubo, N.; Kobayashi, Y.; Tsukaguchi, I.
Nihon Kyobu Geka Gakkai 33(11): 2118-2121
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0369-4739 PMID: 4093674 Document Number: 256355
Heavy left atrial calcification is an uncommon complication in patient with rheumatic mitral valvular disease. We experienced a 49-year old man who had complaint of exertional dyspnea for fifteen years. Chest X-ray revealed heavy calcification of the almost entire left atrial wall. Cardiac catheterization and echocardiography demonstrated severe mitral stenosis, mild degree of aortic and tricupid regurgitation. At operation, left atrium was entered by careful dissection through a layer between left atrium and calcification. The calcified cast of left atrium was completely removed en bloc. Mitral valve was replaced with 29 mm Bjork-Shiley prosthetic valve with concomitant repair of aortic and tricuspid valve. The post operative result was excellent. We conclude that it is very important to remove completely heavy calcification deposits to avoid potential embolization.