Key result
Immediate DCB revascularization of an occluded OM branch achieves TIMI 3 flow and resolves recurrent sinus arrest.
Case Report (n=1)
No
This case demonstrates that isolated lateral wall ischemia from an obtuse marginal branch occlusion can provoke profound sinus arrest via a Bezold-Jarisch reflex-like mechanism without direct sinoatrial node artery ischemia or ST-segment elevation, highlighting the need to consider acute coronary syndrome in unexplained sinus node dysfunction.
May prompt ACS evaluation in unexplained sinus arrest; supports reflex mechanism but leaves open prospective validation.
A 47-year-old man presented with dyspnea and presyncope. Initial electrocardiography showed sinus bradycardia without ST-segment elevation, whereas telemetry revealed recurrent sinus arrest with a maximum pause of 3.3 s. Emergency coronary angiography revealed total occlusion of the obtuse marginal branch. Although the sinoatrial node artery originated near the occlusion, intravascular ultrasound confirmed the preservation of blood flow. Immediate revascularization led to complete resolution of sinus arrest. This case suggests that isolated lateral wall ischemia may represent an unusual manifestation of the Bezold-Jarisch reflex without direct sinoatrial node artery involvement. Therefore, acute coronary syndrome should be considered in unexplained sinus node dysfunction, even in the absence of typical chest pain.
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Ryo Tanaka (2026) conducted a case report in Isolated obtuse marginal branch occlusion (acute coronary syndrome) presenting with recurrent sinus arrest (n=1). Percutaneous coronary intervention with a 2.0x12 mm semi-compliant balloon predilation and 2.5x15 mm drug-coated balloon was evaluated on Resolution of recurrent sinus arrest and coronary flow restoration. Immediate revascularization of a totally occluded obtuse marginal branch using a drug-coated balloon achieved TIMI 3 flow and complete resolution of recurrent 3.3-second sinus arrest.
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