Aspiration Thrombectomy of a Massive Thrombotic Embolus in Acute Myocardial Infarction Caused by Coronary Embolism

Abstract

Coronary embolism is one of the less common causes of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We describe a 72-year-old man with atrial fibrillation having an AMI, in whom a massive intracoronary thrombus of the right coronary artery was successfully removed by aspiration via a thrombectomy catheter, achieving successful reperfusion with a complete resolution of ST-segment elevation. The appearance of the aspirated material suggested coronary embolism was the cause of the AMI. It is concluded aspiration thrombectomy is a feasible and safe approach for treating coronary embolism.