If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ in HCMA Announcements. You may have to register before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below. Your Participation in this message board is strictly voluntary. Information and comments on the message board do not necessarily reflect the feelings, opinions, or positions of the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association. At no time should participants to this board substitute information within for individual medical advice. The Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association shall not be liable for any information provided herein. All participants in this board should conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner. Failure to do so will result in suspension or termination. The moderators of the message board working with the HCMA will be responsible for notifying participants if they have violated the rules of conduct for the board. Moderators or HCMA staff may edit any post to ensure it conforms with the rules of the board or may delete it. This community is welcoming to all those with HCM we ask that you remember each user comes to the board with information and a point of view that may differ from that which you hold, respect is critical, please post respectfully. Thank you

Announcement

Collapse
No announcement yet.

Results of Angiogram ... Couple Questions

Collapse

About the Author

Collapse
Carrie D Father diagnosed w/apical HCM @ 17 yrs old & diagnosed w/an apical aneurysm in 2012. In April 2015 I was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy, Myocardial Bridge & Diastolic Dysfunction. Septal myectomy March 2016/repair myocardial bridge & mitral valve repair. Find out more about Carrie D
X
Collapse
 
  • Page of 1
  • Filter
  • Time
  • Show
Clear All
new posts
Previous template Next
  • #1

    Results of Angiogram ... Couple Questions

    G'Morning,

    I had an angiogram on Friday, the cardiologist told me that my heart is "very thick." He diagnosed me with apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and told me I have a muscle bridge.

    I have been referred to a cardiologist who specializes in cardiomyopathy.

    My septum is also enlarged, is that separate or related to the apical cardiomyopathy?

    Can you suggest some important questions that I should ask the specialist (or recommend where I can find a list of questions to ask)?

    Thanks and Have a great day!
    Tags: None
  • #2
    Re: Results of Angiogram ... Couple Questions

    I've heard the term Bridge used here, but its not common. This leads me to think its not HCM related. You can use the search feature here on this site, but I can't suggest any other sites off the top of my head. I'd suggest ordering the HCM book by Maron & Salberg on Amazon. Very good (and accurate) resource. We suggest all HCM'rs go to an HCM specialist. Believe me, there is a HUGE number of doctors not up on current HCM treatment. In Canada, that's Toronto General.
    HCM is many different diseases with a common issue - excess tissue growth. Apical HCM is a general thickness on the entire bottom of the heart, rather than the septum or the Left ventrical wall which is more commonly seen. But its not to say you couldn't have two types (lucky you!). Apical used to be considered not surgically fixable, but the Mayo Clinic had perfected the procedure, but not a lot of surgeons are up on it.

    Did the doctor ask about your family? your kids? cousins? HCM is hereditary and a knowledgeable doctor would inquire and have you have them get tested as well (an echo or MRI is non-evasive (your cath is evasive and not typically used to DX HCM). But, doctors look at the entire heart including all the vessels to rule out other things so it wasn't a waste.
    Marc
    Diagnosed @ 48
    Saw Dr. Michael Debakey @ age 5 - "He's fine, just a little noisy"
    Father to 3 boys 22, 25, 29 (all currently clear - pending genetics)
    AICD - Valentines Day '08, Spark Plug replaced 11/14
    After much research, I had a Myectomy @ Mayo for my 50th Birthday '08
    Quietly going insane . . .

    Comment

    • #3
      Re: Results of Angiogram ... Couple Questions

      Hi a myocardial bridge is often found when investigating hcm.
      They both can exist separately in a patient.
      The bridge refers to the heart muscle growing over arteries therefore crushing them restricting blood flow.
      Very similar symptoms to heart attatck or hcm.
      A surgeon can cut the heart muscle allowing the arteries to come up and be clear of the muscle .

      Sent from my SGH-I337M

      Comment

      Previous template Next

      Today's Birthdays

      Collapse
      Working...
      X