Myocardial Injury Caused by Severe Blow: Importance of Carefulness in Accurate Diagnosis

Int Heart J. 2018 Jul 31;59(4):845-847. doi: 10.1536/ihj.17-345. Epub 2018 May 23.

Abstract

Blunt chest trauma may lead to cardiac involvement such as myocardial contusion, coronary artery dissection, cardiac rupture, or myocardial infarction. Early detection and treatment of complications such as these are essential. We describe a case status post collision with an iron ball and discuss how to detect myocardial infarction. We emphasize the importance of careful interview, physical examination, and electrocardiogram even in seemingly healthy patients. A severe blow, such as that described, can impair coronary artery flow and may potentially cause myocardial infarction.

Keywords: Blunt trauma; Coronary angiography; Myocardial infarction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Coronary Angiography / methods
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electrocardiography / methods
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Cine / methods
  • Male
  • Medical History Taking / methods
  • Myocardial Contusions / complications*
  • Myocardial Infarction* / diagnosis
  • Myocardial Infarction* / etiology
  • Physical Examination / methods
  • Thoracic Injuries / complications*