Role of IVUS in Assessing Spontaneous Coronary Dissection: a Case Report

Abstract

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare condition that can result in unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, and sudden death. This condition may occur particularly in women during late pregnancy and in the postpartum period. We present the case of a 33-year-old African American woman, who had spontaneous left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) dissection two weeks postpartum, resulting in acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction with severe left ventricular dysfunction. The use of the intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in our case confirmed the diagnosis and helped with stent sizing and implantation. On subsequent follow-up, there was marked left ventricular function recovery and clinical improvement.