Abstract | INTRODUCTION: Albeit described since 1763, cardiac contusions is still an under-recognised clinical condition in the acute care setting. This evidence-based review aims to provide an overview of the topic by focusing on etiopathogenesis, classification and clinical presentation of patients with cardiac contusions, as well as on the diagnostic work-up and therapy options available for this subset population in the acute care setting. METHODS: A targeted research strategy was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Central databases up to June 2022. The literature search was conducted using the following keywords (in Title and/or Abstract): ("cardiac" OR "heart" OR "myocardial") AND (" contusion"). All available high-quality resources written in English and containing information on epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, clinical findings, diagnosis and management of cardiac contusions were included in our research. RESULTS: Biochemical samples of cardiac troponins together with a 12‑lead ECG appear to be sufficient screening tools in hemodynamically stable subjects, while cardiac ultrasound provides a further diagnostic clue for patients with hemodynamic instability or those more likely to have a significant cardiac contusion. CONCLUSIONS: The management of patients with suspected cardiac contusion remains a challenge in clinical practice. For this kind of patients a comprehensive diagnostic approach and a prompt emergency response are required, taking into consideration the degree of severity and clinical impairment of associated traumatic injuries.
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Authors | Riccardo Scagliola, Sara Seitun, Manrico Balbi |
Journal | The American journal of emergency medicine
(Am J Emerg Med)
Vol. 61
Pg. 152-157
(11 2022)
ISSN: 1532-8171 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 36116330
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
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Copyright | Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. |
Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Humans
- Wounds, Nonpenetrating
(complications)
- Myocardial Contusions
(complications)
- Contusions
(diagnosis, therapy, etiology)
- Heart Injuries
(diagnosis, therapy, complications)
- Troponin
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