[Radiological diagnosis of ventrycular aneurysms. A report on 36 operated cases (author's transl)].

The value of different radiological examinations in the diagnosis of left ventricular aneurysms following infarcts is assessed using the results obtained in 36 operated cases. By correlating radiological and surgical findings the orientation value of standard examinations can be determined: almost constant cardiomegaly, irregularity of the borders of the heart, and more rarely, myocardial calcification, are significant signs. The two essential examinations are ventriculography and coronarography. Ventriculography can demonstrate anatomical abnormalities (protrusion), or dynamic changes only (hypokinesia, akinesia, systolic expansion). This remarkably reliable examination showed a predominance of anterior and anterolateral aneurisms (87% of cases), and enables definition of the critical cardiac surface area (about 25%) above which the aneurysm is operable. Coronarography shows that the anterior interventricular artery (A.I.V.) is affected in a large proportion (90%) of aneurysms. These two examinations can be used to select those patients suitable for surgery. Results were good and only one death occurred. In the other cases, the disorders of rhythm were reduced and the manifestations of cardiac insufficiency disappeared.