Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 2, 2025

An Image Guided Transapical Mitral Valve Leaflet Puncture Model of Controlled Volume Overload from Mitral Regurgitation in the Rat
Published on: May 19, 2020
Acute mitral regurgitation after non-ischemic papillary muscle rupture: A case report
Miho Nakamura1, Akihiro Isotani1, Kyohei Yamaji1
1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kokura Memorial Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan.
Abstract:
Papillary muscle rupture (PMR) is a life-threatening cardiac emergency that is generally associated with inadequate myocardial perfusion after acute myocardial infarction. Nonischemic spontaneous PMR occurs less frequently and is mostly caused by myocarditis, infections, or trauma. We report a patient with spontaneous PMR resulting in severe mitral regurgitation with refractory heart failure showing no specific causes but deterioration of the mitral leaflet and papillary muscle. The integration of pathologic and echocardiographic findings describes the details of the disease. <Learning objective: Spontaneous papillary muscle rupture is relatively rare compared with cardiac infarctions. Myocarditis, infection, and trauma are most common reasons, but long-term papillary muscle deterioration due to mechanical force can rupture without such episodes. Acute mitral regurgitation due to papillary muscle rupture is life-threatening, thus, evaluation for surgical therapy should be immediately initiated.>.
Insights
Spontaneous papillary muscle rupture (PMR) is a rare, life-threatening cardiac emergency. This case highlights PMR from nonischemic, long-term deterioration, leading to severe mitral regurgitation and heart failure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Papillary muscle rupture (PMR) is a critical cardiac emergency, typically linked to acute myocardial infarction and impaired blood flow.
- Nonischemic spontaneous PMR is less common, often stemming from myocarditis, infections, or trauma.
Observation:
- A case of spontaneous PMR is presented, leading to severe mitral regurgitation and refractory heart failure.
- The patient exhibited no specific underlying causes, but rather a progressive deterioration of the mitral leaflet and papillary muscle.
Findings:
- Echocardiographic and pathological findings were integrated to detail the disease process.
- The rupture resulted from long-term mechanical stress and deterioration, independent of acute ischemic events.
Implications:
- Spontaneous PMR, though rare, necessitates immediate evaluation for surgical intervention due to its life-threatening nature.
- Understanding nonischemic causes of PMR is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of acute mitral regurgitation.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction
Mitral Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management
Mitral Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management

