Asymptomatic Cement Embolism in the Right Atrium after Vertebroplasty Using High-Viscosity Cement: A Case Report

Abstract

A 52-year-old woman underwent vertebroplasty for fractures of the T10, T11, and L2 vertebrae secondary to multiple myeloma. She was discharged uneventfully within a week. Nine months later, she was readmitted for syncope. Echocardiography revealed a mass in the right atrium. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a low signal intensity irregular mass (8×7 mm) and a comma-shaped mass (12 mm) in the right atrium. She was prophylactically anticoagulated for the probable emboli. Repeat cardiac MRI performed 2 weeks later showed that the size of the masses remained unchanged. Surgical intervention was not suggested by the cardiothoracic surgeons. Three months later, the patient remained uneventful.