Interventricular septal hematoma following congenital cardiac surgery is an uncommon entity. Literature search reveals few cases of interventricular septal hematoma complicating pediatric cardiac surgery. We report a case of interventricular septal hematoma following patch closure of ventricular septal defect, with associated myocardial necrosis and myocardial rupture.
Background
Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SoVA) is a rare anomaly and can be divided into acquired and congenital forms, the latter being commonly associated with ventricular septal defects (VSDs). Rupture is a catastrophic complication with high mortality without urgent surgical intervention. We would like to highlight the use of echocardiography in an emergency setting for diagnosis and surgical intervention in a critically ill patient.
Case summary
We report a 27-year-old female with history of conservatively managed VSD known since childhood. She presented with acute decompensated cardiac failure requiring intubation and inotropic support. Bedside echocardiography performed in the emergency department suggested a ruptured SoVA at the right coronary cusp with underlying supracristal VSD. Despite the patient being critically ill with multi-organ failure, surgery was performed as it was the patient’s best chance for survival. Intraoperative findings tallied with the early echocardiographic results. She recovered gradually and was eventually discharged despite a stormy post-operative period.
Discussion
This case report highlights the importance of prompt recognition of SoVA rupture by using bedside echocardiography. Surgical intervention needs to be early despite ongoing sepsis in view of acute mechanical failure. This case was unique as it illustrates a successful management of an acutely ill patient with multi-organ failure through early diagnosis, intensive perioperative stabilization, and surgical intervention.
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