Fragmentation of the myocardium is a medical condition characterized by the breaking down of the heart muscle fibers into small fragments. The spelling of this word can be explained through its phonetic transcription, which is /ˌfræɡmɛnˈteɪʃən əv ði ˌmaɪəʊˈkɑːrdɪəm/. The combination of the letters "fr" and "gr" are pronounced as /fr/ and /gr/ respectively, while the "o" and "e" in "myocardium" are pronounced as /ɑ/ and /iː/ respectively. People with this condition may experience symptoms such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and shortness of breath, and may require medical treatment.
Fragmentation of the myocardium refers to a condition characterized by the presence of small, disconnected pieces or fragments within the muscular tissue of the heart. The myocardium is the thick, middle layer of the heart muscle responsible for contraction and pumping blood. Fragmentation of the myocardium is an abnormality that can occur as a result of various cardiac disorders.
This condition typically arises in the context of myocardial infarction or heart attack, wherein there is a blockage in the blood flow to a specific section of the heart. The lack of oxygen-rich blood reaching the affected area causes the dying or dead myocardial cells to break down, resulting in fragmented tissue. The presence of these disconnected fragments within the myocardium can lead to impaired heart function and complications such as arrhythmias, heart failure, or cardiogenic shock.
Diagnosis of fragmentation of the myocardium involves a combination of clinical evaluation, electrocardiogram (ECG) readings, cardiac imaging (such as echocardiography or cardiac MRI), and possibly cardiac catheterization. Treatment typically focuses on managing the underlying cause, such as reestablishing blood flow through medications or procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to treat associated symptoms or complications.
Overall, fragmentation of the myocardium represents an abnormal structural disruption in the heart muscle that can significantly impact cardiac function and warrants prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment.
A transverse rupture of the muscular fibers of the heart, especially those of the papillary muscles.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.