Post infarction heart rupture is a rare and life-threatening complication that occurs following a heart attack (myocardial infarction). This condition involves the spontaneous tearing or splitting of the heart muscle, leading to the leakage of blood into the surrounding tissue or other heart chambers.
The rupture usually transpires within 3-14 days of the initial myocardial infarction and is predominantly linked to the weakening of the infarcted area, which becomes more susceptible to mechanical stress. The weakened tissue may subsequently give way under increased pressure, causing a tear or rupture to manifest.
Post infarction heart rupture is categorized into three major subtypes, namely, rupture of the ventricular free wall, rupture of the interventricular septum, and rupture of the papillary muscle. Each subtype presents unique challenges and is associated with various clinical manifestations and consequences. Prompt diagnosis is crucial as this condition necessitates immediate medical intervention as well as surgical repair in most cases.
The clinical presentation of post infarction heart rupture may include symptoms such as severe chest pain, rapid onset of dizziness or lightheadedness, palpitations, irregular heart rhythms, shortness of breath, and a drop in blood pressure. Diagnosis is typically confirmed using a variety of tests, such as echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, and electrocardiography.
Due to its potentially fatal consequences, post infarction heart rupture requires urgent surgical intervention and repair to halt the leakage of blood and stabilize the patient's condition. The prognosis for post infarction heart rupture is highly dependent on the location, severity, promptness of diagnosis, and immediate access to surgical intervention.
