Coronary artery dissection (heart artery tear)


Description

The tearing of a coronary artery (artery of the heart). It can occur spontaneously or after an injury. The most common injury is during an angioplasty to relieve an obstruction.

Symptoms

Chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, fainting.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A coronary angiogram and/or CT angiogram will be done to define the injury.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin, X-ray

Other Specific Tests: Coronary angiogram

Specialists:
Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cardiology

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the defect treatment can include: coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), stenting of the artery, or observation. 
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