Anatomic, clinical, and therapeutic features of acute cardiac rupture

A 62-year-old man sustained an acute myocardial infarction complicated on the thirteenth hour by left ventricular rupture and acute pericardial tamponade. Echocardiography confirmed the suspicion of intrapericardial fluid, and immediate pericardiocentesis improved the hemodynamic state for a period sufficient to permit preparation for operation. Resection of ruptured and necrotic anteroapical left ventricular myocardium with primary reconstruction was successfully accomplished with the aid of temporary extracorporeal circulation. The patient has remained well for 1 year after the operation. Anatomic, clinical, and therapeutic features of acute cardiac rupture are discussed.