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Updated: Sep 11, 2026

Murine Isolated Heart Model of Myocardial Stunning Associated with Cardioplegic Arrest
Published on: August 6, 2015
[Myocardial stunning in the context of a subarachnoid hemorrhage]
C Delgado1, C Rubert, F Barturen
1Servicio de Cardiología, Policlínica Miramar, Palma de Mallorca.
Insights
Myocardial stunning, a heart condition, can occur after a stroke. This case shows rapid recovery in a patient experiencing cardiac events following subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Myocardial stunning is infrequently documented in patients experiencing cerebrovascular accidents.
- Cerebrovascular accidents can precipitate a range of cardiovascular complications.
Observation:
- A patient developed severe anteroapical wall motion abnormalities and extensive anterior ST-segment elevation post-subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- These cardiac manifestations resolved completely within a 2-day period.
Findings:
- The cardiac event was characterized by significant myocardial dysfunction and electrocardiographic changes.
- Complete functional recovery of cardiac activity was observed rapidly.
Implications:
- Stroke-related sympathetic nervous system surges may induce coronary vasospasm, leading to myocardial stunning.
- This case highlights a potential mechanism linking neurological events to acute cardiac pathology.
- Further research is warranted to explore the link between cerebrovascular accidents and myocardial stunning.
Abstract:
Myocardial stunning has been poorly described in patients with cerebrovascular accidents. We present a patient in whom severe anteroapical wall motion abnormalities and extensive anterior ST-segment elevation developed after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Total recovery ensued within 2 days. Coronary vasospasm induced by stroke-related sympathetic surge might be the determinant factor of this cardiac event.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Stroke: Introduction and Types
Ischemic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology
Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction
Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology

