Rupture of Papillary Muscles

• Non-rhythmic complications of acute MI - Rupture of papillary muscle(s):

  • A complete papillary rupture results in ineffective atrioventricular valves and death within a few hours / days, unless promptly treated
  • Most commonly ruptures of the papillary muscles are incomplete
  • A partial rupture most typically occurs on the left and results in mitral valve dysfunction i.e. regurgitation, which may precipitate Left Ventricular Failure
  • Treatment involves valve replacement surgery once the patient is haemodynamically stable and fit for surgery