Cardiac embolism

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A cardiac embolism is the discharge of a thrombus over the heart into the arterial bloodstream . This often results in a complete or partial closure of the supply area of ​​the affected arteries. Cardiac embolism is one of the most common causes of stroke . A cardiac embolism is the cause of around 20% of all strokes . Another possible consequence of a cardiac embolism is acute vascular occlusion of arteries in the extremities or internal organs.

causes

The most common causes of cardiac embolism are absolute arrhythmia in atrial fibrillation and dilated cardiomyopathy . Other favorable factors are cardiac valve involvement in endocarditis , aneurysm formation of the left ventricle or the atrial septum, and a persistent foramen ovale . General risk factors for cardiac embolism are high blood pressure , diabetes mellitus , old age and lipid metabolism disorders.

Diagnosis

Cardiac arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation can be diagnosed with an EKG . With the help of an echocardiography , for example, aneurysms of the heart wall or valve defects can be detected.

Prophylaxis and therapy

The therapy of a cardiac embolism that has taken place depends on the symptoms and the location of the damage. In addition to thrombolysis , angiography or rheological measures, percutaneous or surgical thrombectomies are also possible. Prophylaxis includes the drug treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and anticoagulation therapy . An open foramen ovale can be closed during a cardiac catheter examination .

Individual evidence

  1. ↑ Heinz Lambertz (editor), Harald Lethen (editor): Transesophageal echocardiography: teaching atlas for examination techniques and reliable interpretation of findings
  2. ↑ Markus Dietl et al .: Cause of stroke and need for long-term care . Advances in Neurology & Psychiatry: 77, 12, 2009, pp. 714–719
  3. ↑ Heinz-Walter Delank, Walter Gehlen: Neurology 2011 Georg Thieme Verlag
  4. ↑ Frank Wappler (editor), Peter Tonner (editor), Hartmut Bürkle (editor): Anesthesia and concomitant diseases: Perioperative management of the sick patient