What is Myxoma of the Heart?

Myxoma is one of the benign primary cardiac tumors that occur in the heart's own structure. Although the majority of cases are seen in the left atrium of the heart, it can also occur in the right atrium. Left atrium myxomas are usually seen in the wall between the two atria. It may be connected to the heart wall by a stalk. In some cases, it can close the mitral valve or grow towards the left ventricle.

The main symptom is shortness of breath, and the patient experiences this shortness of breath intensely, especially during activities that require effort. It is similar to the symptoms of mitral valve diseases. Sudden fainting may occur in some patients due to the closure of the mitral valve. High fever, easy fatigue, joint pain, and heart failure are among other symptoms of myxoma. However, myxoma fragments entering the bloodstream can cause vascular occlusion.

Myxomas that occur in the heart are successfully treated with minimally invasive surgery, also known as axillary heart surgery. Since myxomas are easily ruptured, they require careful and meticulous work during surgery. Therefore, the specialist physician's knowledge and experience on this subject is an important element that plays a role in the success of the surgery.