Left Ventricular Pseudoaneurysm

Home
Our Specialties
Left Ventricular Pseudoaneurysm

A left ventricular pseudoaneurysm forms when a cardiac rupture is contained by adherent pericardium or scar tissue. Most cases are related to myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. These ruptures sometimes are classified as false aneurysms, and they are different from and should not be confused with actual left ventricular aneurysms. Pseudoaneurysms are a result of a breach or break in the walls of blood vessels, which allows blood to leak through the walls that is then contained by surrounding soft tissue.

Pseudoaneurysms can be more dangerous that regular aneurysms. A left ventricular pseudoaneurysm is a rare condition that is difficult to diagnose, with chest pain and congestive heart failure being the most common symptoms, although some cases produce no distinguishable symptoms. Studies indicate that a large percentage of those with left ventricular pseudoaneurysms also have heart murmurs, and at least half of those studied had visible masses that showed up in radiographic tests (such as x-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs), which is thought to be an important factor in distinguishing the condition from other heart-related ailments and ensuring a correct diagnosis. Ventricular pseudoaneurysms typically have a high mortality rate, despite possible treatments and surgeries available to minimize damage from the rupture.

For comprehensive care and surgical expertise as well as ground-breaking research, UAB is the region’s most advanced health-care facility for treating cardiovascular and thoracic disorders. Our high standard of care is available for any cardiovascular and cardiothoracic illness or condition. We are a national leader in cardiothoracic surgery with a long history of excellence and perform thousands of open-heart procedures each year.

UAB provides you with round-the-clock access to some of the world’s best, most-respected surgeons. UAB’s cardiothoracic surgeons include respected pioneers in their fields, as well as leading researchers and innovators in essentially all areas of cardiothoracic medicine. Here, some of the world’s most sought-after and experienced surgeons operate in state-of-the-art facilities, backed by nationally recognized nursing care.

Videos

Meet the Team: Kyle Eudailey, MD

Dr. Eudailey specializes in adult cardiac surgery, including aortic surgery and transcatheter treatment of valve disease. He is grateful for the opportunity to help patients improve their quality of life.

Watch

Sarah’s Heart

When Sarah Ford found out she needed heart surgery, she made the drive from her home in Dothan to Birmingham to receive treatment at UAB. The experienced surgeons, compassionate staff, and cutting-edge care at UAB made her feel secure and safe.

Watch