Severe Dilatation of Coronary Artery Ostium Complicating Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm: Differential Diagnosis and Review of the Literature

Large Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm Complicated by Thrombus Formation

Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SOVA) is an unusual cardiac anomaly that is potentially fatal with rupture. It is often asymptomatic but has various presentations. We describe a case of a 67-year-old male who presented with atypical chest pain. Transthoracic echocardiogram and cardiac computed tomography scan confirmed a large SOVA complicated by thrombus formation and compression of the left atrium and left ventricular outflow tract. The patient successfully underwent a Bentall procedure-surgical aortic aneurysm repair with mechanical aortic valve conduit. We discuss several clinical decision-making branch points to highlight the complexity of managing this condition. Even in asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic patients with SOVA, surgery may be indicated if the aneurysm meets the criteria for size or has thrombus formation or compressive effects.