Mechanical Complications of Myocardial Infarction

Mechanical complications of myocardial infarction include rupture of a papillary muscle, ventricular septum, and free wall. Since the advent of acute coronary reperfusion, there has been a significant reduction in the incidence of these complications. One must have a high index of suspicion for a mechanical complication in any patient who develops cardiogenic shock in the days following a myocardial infarction. The most important diagnostic investigation in evaluation of these complications is echocardiography. Although there is a role for mechanical circulatory support, urgent surgical repair is required in most cases. We will review the predictors, clinical features, diagnostic, and management strategies in patients with these complications.