Infarction and Rupture of the Heart

Paul T. Vaitkus, Mark A. Greenberg, Bernard Gitler, Arthur C. Fox

Research output: Contribution to journalLetterpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

To the Editor: Drs. Greenberg and Gitler must be commended for their lucid description of a case of ventricular rupture complicating myocardial infarction (Sept. 1 issue).1 The accompanying editorial by Dr. Fox,2 however, disparages the observation of obliteration of the “y” descent, labeling it “of pathophysiologic interest but not of practical diagnostic value.” He goes on to recommend echocardiography as the investigation of choice in this situation. In case of an unsatisfactory study he suggests pericardiocentesis as the next step. An echocardiogram demonstrating pericardial fluid is not diagnostic of tamponade. Furthermore, as in the case described in the Journal.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)851-852
Number of pages2
JournalNew England Journal of Medicine
Volume310
Issue number13
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 29 1984

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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