On 8/1, Doctor Le Van Tuyen from City International Hospital reported that the patient's symptoms appeared suddenly, even during light activity, making it impossible to maintain normal daily life. An emergency echocardiogram revealed a ruptured Valsalva sinus communicating with the right atrium, a rare but dangerous cardiovascular lesion.

According to Doctor Tuyen, the Valsalva sinus is a structure of the aorta. When it ruptures, especially into the right side of the heart, it creates a large shunt from the aorta to the right heart. High-pressure blood continuously floods the right heart, causing overload and rapidly leading to heart failure in a short time if not detected and treated promptly.

Based on transesophageal echocardiography results, which clearly identified the rupture's location, size, and distance from the aortic valve, doctors opted for percutaneous intervention instead of open-heart surgery. Through a femoral blood vessel, the team guided a catheter to the lesion, sealing the abnormal shunt. Following the intervention, symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath significantly improved. The patient was able to walk and resume normal activities, being discharged after one day of monitoring, avoiding the extended recovery period typically associated with open-heart surgery.

The doctor examines the patient. Photo: Hospital provided

Doctors advise against complacency regarding symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, even if they appear fleeting. These signs can be early warnings of rare but dangerous cardiovascular diseases, requiring prompt examination and timely treatment.

Le Phuong