Angina, Anomalous Coronaries, Surgical Correction, and Return to Olympic Cycling

Abstract

Background: Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) is an uncommon congenital abnormality associated with sudden cardiac death (SCD), particularly in young athletes. Case Summary: We present a case of a 4-time Olympic medalist track cyclist who experienced sporadic anginal symptoms during maximal efforts and was found to have an anomalous aortic origin of the right coronary artery (AAORCA). The athlete had a successful surgical reimplantation and returned to elite sport. Discussion: Management decisions are complex: The investigations used to confirm ischemia and to stratify SCD risk are imperfect, and the surgical treatment carries potential risk. Furthermore, the impact of a s..