Complex Coronary Artery Fistula in a Young Adult: Not Seeing the Wood for the Trees

Coronary artery fistulas (CAFs) represent rare congenital anomalies that exhibit a wide range of clinical implications and a heightened risk of complications. It is imperative to accurately identify and delineate these fistulas to avoid missed diagnoses and to recommend suitable therapeutic measures. We present the case of a 46-year-old obese woman who was hospitalized for chest pain associated with palpitations. Clinical examination and ECG results were within normal limits. A 24-hour ECG holter revealed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a systolodiastolic aliasing originating from the aorta and coursing along the right atrium. Transesophageal echocardiography and coronary angiography confirmed this finding. The diagnosis of a voluminous and tortuous coronary-cameral fistula was established through coronary CT angiography with 3D reconstruction images. A positive stress test indicated the need for surgical closure, given the size and aneurysmal nature of the fistula. However, the patient unfortunately passed away two days after the surgery. This case highlights the critical need for precise identification and management of CAFs. The patient's unfortunate post-surgical outcome underscores the complexity and risks associated with these anomalies, emphasizing the ongoing need for improved treatment strategies and research in this area.