MI complications Flashcards
What is the most common cause of death following a myocardial infarction?
Cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation, a dangerous heart rhythm that stops the heart from pumping properly.
How is cardiac arrest following an MI managed?
Using the Advanced Life Support (ALS) protocol, including CPR and defibrillation to restart the heart.
What causes cardiogenic shock after an MI?
A large area of heart muscle is damaged, so the heart can’t pump enough blood around the body.
What treatments may be needed for cardiogenic shock?
Medicines to help the heart pump (inotropes) or a special device like an intra-aortic balloon pump to support circulation.
What chronic condition can follow an MI due to myocardial dysfunction?
Chronic heart failure, where the heart can’t pump blood effectively long-term.
Which medications improve prognosis in chronic heart failure?
ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, which reduce strain on the heart and improve survival.
Which drug is used to manage fluid overload in chronic heart failure?
Furosemide, a diuretic that helps remove extra fluid from the body.
What arrhythmias are common after an MI?
Dangerous fast rhythms like ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.
Which bradyarrhythmia is more common after inferior MI?
Atrioventricular (AV) block, where the electrical signals in the heart are delayed or blocked.
When does pericarditis typically occur after a transmural MI?
Usually within the first 48 hours after the heart attack.
What are signs of pericarditis post-MI?
Chest pain that worsens when lying flat, a rubbing sound heard with a stethoscope, and fluid around the heart.
What is Dressler’s syndrome?
A delayed inflammation around the heart (2–6 weeks after MI) causing chest pain, fever, and fluid buildup.
How is Dressler’s syndrome treated?
With anti-inflammatory drugs like NSAIDs to reduce pain and swelling.
What complication can result from myocardial weakening post-MI?
Left ventricular aneurysm – a bulging area in the heart wall that can affect heart function.
What ECG change is associated with a left ventricular aneurysm?
Persistent ST elevation on the ECG, even after the heart attack has passed.
Why are patients with LV aneurysm anticoagulated?
To prevent blood clots forming inside the aneurysm that could cause a stroke.
When does left ventricular free wall rupture typically occur post-MI?
Usually 1–2 weeks after the heart attack.
What are signs of LV free wall rupture?
Sudden heart failure with signs of fluid around the heart like raised neck veins and faint heart sounds.
What is the emergency treatment for LV free wall rupture?
Drain the fluid (pericardiocentesis) and emergency surgery (thoracotomy).
When does a ventricular septal defect usually occur post-MI?
Typically within the first week after the heart attack.
What are features of VSD post-MI?
Heart failure symptoms and a loud murmur heard with a stethoscope.
How is VSD post-MI diagnosed?
Using an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound).
What is the treatment for VSD post-MI?
Emergency heart surgery to fix the hole.
Which MI type is more likely to cause acute mitral regurgitation?
Infero-posterior infarction, which affects the area near the mitral valve.
