hibernating myocardium
Viable but dysfunctional myocardial tissue with reduced contractility due to chronic hypoperfusion that may recover function after revascularization.
Full Definition
Hibernating myocardium refers to a state of chronic, adaptive downregulation of myocardial contractile function in response to reduced coronary blood flow. Unlike stunned myocardium, which occurs after acute ischemia-reperfusion, hibernation develops gradually as a protective mechanism against chronic ischemia. The myocardial tissue remains viable but exhibits reduced metabolic activity and contractile function. Hibernating segments can be identified through various imaging modalities including dobutamine stress echocardiography, FDG-PET, or late gadolinium enhancement MRI. Recognition of hibernating myocardium is crucial for treatment decisions, as these segments have the potential to recover function following successful revascularization.
Usage
Usage note: Use hibernating as adjective; avoid hibernation when referring to the tissue state.
In Context
- "FDG-PET imaging confirmed the presence of hibernating myocardium in the inferior wall segments." — Viability assessment report
- "The patient showed significant improvement in wall motion after revascularization of hibernating myocardium." — Follow-up cardiac imaging report