Intraluminal filling defect is often observed during coronary angiogram .Thrombosis has become the default diagnosis in most situations.This has resulted in over diagnosis of thrombosis .In fact a strategically located plaque stained by the dye is an equally common cause for intraluminal filling defect.
In fact there are many recognised caused of filling defect
- Thrombus
- Dissection
- An eccentric plaque
- Dye trapped within plaque fissures
- Calcification projecting into lumen
- Plaque prolapse from stent struts
- Artifacts-End on view of side branches
- Static myocardial bridges
- Trapped air bubble(Transient filling defect)
- Streaming effect dye may mimic a filling defect
Message
It is not advicable to make a default dignosis of coronary thrombosis in all cases of intraluminal filling defects
Dr.S.Venkatesan MD 