Diastolic Aorto–Right-Atrial Fistulation in Aortic and Tricuspid Valve Endocarditis

Abstract

Background Aorto–right-atrial fistula in native valve endocarditis is very rare.

Case Description A 45-year-old woman was referred with an endocarditis with a perforated right cusp of the aortic valve with at least moderate insufficiency and an affected tricuspid annulus with vegetations. In addition to this, an aorto-cavitary fistula from the aortic sinus to the right atrium with a holodiastolic left–right shunt had been detected. Streptococci viridans were found as underlying pathogen. Complete replacement of the aortic root and resection of the fistula were performed with good result.

Conclusion Endocarditis with fistula formation is rare and has to be treated aggressively.

Keywords

aortic valve and root - endocarditis - cardiovascular surgery

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