Non-invasive Investigation and Management of Aortic Saddle Embolus in a 7-Month-Old Infant

Abstract

There are few reports in the literature on the ultrasound appearance of aortic saddle embolus, and none relating to small children. This unusual condition is usually diagnosed angiographically. The purpose of this report is to show how effectively high-frequency ultrasound can identify a saddle embolus with its associated collateral circulation in a young child, and to demonstrate its usefulness in monitoring the efficacy of treatment. In this case the embolus occurred as a complication of parvovirus B19 myocarditis and was diagnosed and followed up entirely by ultrasound examination, with no invasive procedure performed. The early development of an extensive collateral circulation prevented distal tissue necrosis and allowed a conservative approach to management.