Abstract
Left atrial intramural hematoma (LAIH) is an uncommon entity for which a
timely diagnosis is critical for decision making. Cardiac surgical or
catheter-based procedures are potential causing factors. Though cardiac
computerized tomography and magnetic resonance are highly accurate
diagnostic modalities, their role is limited by the lack of widespread
availability. The present clinical case illustrates the diagnostic
features of LAIH that can be obtained using echocardiography at the
bedside in critically ill patients. We report a case of LAIH, that
followed a catheter ablation procedure and was complicated by cardiac
and cerebral ischemia. Cardiac surgical management was required.