Hibernating myocardium
Chronically dysfunctional but viable myocardial tissue that can recover function following revascularization.
Full Definition
Hibernating myocardium refers to cardiac muscle tissue that has become chronically dysfunctional due to prolonged reduction in coronary blood flow, but retains viability and the potential to recover contractile function when adequate perfusion is restored through revascularization. This phenomenon represents a protective adaptation to chronic ischemia where the myocardium downregulates its metabolic demands. Identification of hibernating myocardium is crucial for determining which patients may benefit from revascularization procedures versus medical therapy alone. Imaging modalities such as PET scanning and dobutamine stress echocardiography are used to assess viability.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from myocardial stunning by the chronic nature and requirement for revascularization rather than spontaneous recovery.
In Context
- "PET imaging revealed hibernating myocardium in the anterior wall, supporting the decision for surgical revascularization." — Cardiology consultation note
- "The presence of hibernating myocardium was confirmed by improvement in wall motion following dobutamine infusion." — Echocardiogram report