Non-selective Aortic Root Angiographic Contrast Injection in a Case of Anomalous Right Coronary Artery Ostium

Cureus. 2023 Aug 4;15(8):e42945. doi: 10.7759/cureus.42945. eCollection 2023 Aug.

Abstract

Anomalous origin of the right coronary artery (RCA) is a rare congenital cardiovascular anomaly that can pose significant diagnostic challenges during cardiac evaluation. We present a case of a 54-year-old male patient with chest pain and a syncopal episode and subsequently diagnosed with non-ST-elevated myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Coronary angiography revealed an anomalous origin of the RCA, making it difficult to precisely locate the artery's point of origin with selective contrast injection. During coronary angiography, the use of aortic root non-selective angiographic contrast injection aided in localizing the RCA ostium. Our case highlights the clinical significance of aortic contrast injection as a valuable and safe adjunctive technique in cases of anomalous coronary artery origins. Early detection and precise localization of such anomalies are essential for effective treatment planning and improved patient outcomes. Further studies may help validate the utility of aortic contrast injection in similar cases, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient care in the management of anomalous coronary artery ostium.

Keywords: angiography; anomalous origin of right coronary artery; cto; non-selective coronary angiography; non-st segment elevation myocardial infarction (nstemi).

Publication types

  • Case Reports