Noninvasive Multimodality Imaging for the Assessment of Anomalous Coronary Artery

AbstractPurpose of ReviewAnomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) is a rare congenital coronary anomaly with the potential to cause myocardial ischemia and adverse cardiac events. The presence of AAOCA anatomy itself does not necessarily implicate a need for revascularization. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to assess how noninvasive comprehensive anatomic- and physiologic evaluation may guide patient management.Recent FindingsThe assessment of AAOCA includes an accurate description of the anomalous origin/vessel course including anatomical high-risk features such as a slit-like ostium, proximal narrowing, elliptic vessel shape, acute take-off angle, intramural course, and possible  concomitant coronary atherosclerosis and hemodynamics. Various cardiac imaging modalities offer unique advantages and capabilities in visualizing these anatomical and functional aspects of AAOCA.SummaryThis review explored the role of noninvasive multimodality imaging in the characterization of AAOCA by highlighting the strengths, limitations, and potential applications of the current different cardiac imaging methods, with a focus on the pathophysiology of myocardial ischemia and stress testing protocols.

Source: Current Cardiology Reports - October 18, 2023 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research