What are the hazards of complete occlusion of the right coronary artery?

The right coronary artery is one of the major arteries supplying blood to the human heart. Complete occlusion of this artery can significantly impair cardiac function. Generally, the consequences of complete occlusion of the right coronary artery include acute myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and heart failure. Specific details are as follows:

1. Acute Myocardial Infarction

After complete occlusion of the right coronary artery, severe myocardial ischemia occurs. If not treated promptly, this may lead to acute myocardial infarction. Acute myocardial infarction refers to necrosis of myocardial cells due to ischemia, which severely compromises cardiac function.

2. Arrhythmias

Complete occlusion of the right coronary artery causes electrophysiological changes due to myocardial ischemia, potentially resulting in arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. Arrhythmias disrupt normal cardiac contraction and blood ejection, and in severe cases may cause syncope or sudden death.

3. Heart Failure

Following complete occlusion of the right coronary artery, myocardial ischemia leads to myocardial damage, significantly impairing the heart's contractile function and cardiac output. Over time, this may progress to heart failure. Heart failure refers to the heart’s inability to meet the body’s demands for blood and oxygen, leading to symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

In addition, other potential complications include reduced cardiac function, acute shock, and sudden cardiac death. Therefore, if any related symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations occur, prompt medical attention should be sought for appropriate evaluation and treatment to prevent further deterioration of the condition.