Coronary artery fistulae

Abstract

Coronary artery fistulae are abnormal communications between a coronary artery and a cardiac chamber or major vessel (vena cava, pulmonary veins, pulmonary artery). They are usually diagnosed by coronary arteriography. Clinical presentations are variable depending on the type of fistula, shunt volume, site of the shunt, and presence of other cardiac conditions. In this article, we review the literature regarding etiology, incidence, clinical manifestation, image studies, and management.