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Updated: Sep 8, 2025

Ultrasonic Assessment of Myocardial Microstructure
Published on: January 14, 2014
Update review on myocardial bridging: New insights
Anthony Matta1, Jerome Roncalli2, Didier Carrié2
1Department of cardiology, Institute CARDIOMET, University Hospital of Toulouse, Toulouse, France; Department of cardiology, Intercommunal Hospital Centre Castres-Mazamet, Castres, France; Faculty of medicine, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon.
Insights
Myocardial bridging (MB) is a common congenital heart issue. It can cause myocardial ischemia and is linked to myocardial infarction, with treatments ranging from medication to invasive procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Myocardial bridging (MB) is a common congenital abnormality.
- It often remains asymptomatic but can manifest clinically in the third and fourth decades.
- MB can lead to myocardial ischemia through various mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of myocardial bridging.
- To discuss the controversial association between MB and atherosclerotic disease.
- To highlight the current treatment strategies and the need for further research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on myocardial bridging.
- Analysis of mechanisms causing myocardial ischemia in MB.
- Evaluation of medical and invasive treatment options.
- Discussion of the link between MB and coronary artery disease.
Main Results:
- MB is associated with myocardial infarction and non-obstructive coronary artery disease.
- Medical treatments include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and ivabradine.
- Invasive options like PCI, CABG, and myotomy are for refractory cases.
- Data is largely anecdotal, lacking randomized clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- Myocardial bridging is a significant condition requiring careful management.
- Further research, including randomized clinical trials, is essential.
- Personalized treatment strategies are crucial for patients with symptomatic MB.
Abstract:
Myocardial bridging (MB) is a common congenital abnormality that remains asymptomatic in a large proportion of patients. The peak of clinical manifestation occurs during the third and fourth decades of life. MB provokes myocardial ischemia through different mechanisms including supply-demand mismatch, endothelial dysfunction, coronary microvascular dysfunction and external mechanical compression. The association between MB and atherosclerotic disease is controversial. Recent studies established a significant association of MB with myocardial infarction and non-obstructive coronary artery disease. The first line medical treatment is based on beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers. Ivabradine is used in second line therapy. Invasive approaches involving percutaneous coronary intervention, coronary artery bypass graft and myotomy are performed in patients with symptoms refractory to maximally tolerated medical treatment. The choice of revascularization technique depends on anatomical characteristics, clinical condition and physician experience. Available data derived from anecdotal evidence view the lack of randomized clinical trials.
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