Coronary arteriovenous fistula

Coronary arteriovenous fistula (CAVF) refers to an abnormal communication between a coronary artery or its branches and any heart chamber, the coronary sinus or its venous tributaries, or a great vessel near the heart (such as the pulmonary artery, pulmonary vein, or superior vena cava). Since most fistulas drain into the right heart system, they are called coronary arteriovenous fistulas. CAVF is a rare congenital heart malformation resulting from abnormal cardiovascular development during the embryonic period. Most patients with this condition are asymptomatic, while a few experience easy fatigability, dyspnea on exertion, and chest pain.