Return-to-Sport Evaluation After ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Persistent Systolic Dysfunction in a
Sean P Meagher1, Nathan Kong1, Peter J Zimetbaum1
1Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Background:
Return-to-sport evaluation after myocardial infarction is complex when significant residual systolic dysfunction persists.
Case Summary:
A 66-year-old competitive amateur slalom skier presented for return-to-sport evaluation 7 months after anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated with fibrinolysis and percutaneous coronary intervention. His course was complicated by ischemic cardiomyopathy (left ventricular ejection fraction = 25%), left ventricular thrombus, and post-myocardial infarction pericarditis. After completing cardiac rehabilitation and guideline-directed medical therapy, he sought guidance on resuming high-intensity endurance training and competitive downhill skiing.
Discussion:
A structured sports cardiology evaluation approach incorporated disease-specific risk (ventricular dysfunction), medication-associated bleeding risk (dual antiplatelet therapy), and sport-specific hazards (collision, high altitude, and delayed emergency access). Shared decision-making aligned the patient's athletic identity with risk mitigation. Competitive skiing was deferred in the short term, with a tailored exercise prescription based on his unique physiology. This case highlights a practical framework for return-to-sport readiness in masters athletes with persistent ventricular dysfunction after myocardial infarction.
Take-Home Messages:
Individualized return-to-sport assessment after myocardial infarction with persistent left ventricular dysfunction requires integrating disease-, medication-, and sport-specific risks. Shared decision-making allows athletes to maintain meaningful physical activity while prioritizing safety.
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