transmural infarction
Myocardial infarction extending through the full thickness of the ventricular wall. Associated with Q-wave formation and complete coronary occlusion.
Full Definition
Transmural infarction refers to myocardial necrosis extending through the full thickness of the ventricular wall from endocardium to epicardium. This pattern typically results from complete occlusion of an epicardial coronary artery for extended periods, leading to Q-wave formation on ECG. On cardiac imaging, transmural infarcts show complete loss of wall thickening and often demonstrate delayed enhancement extending >50% of wall thickness on cardiac MRI. These infarcts carry worse prognosis than subendocardial infarcts due to larger territory of myocardial loss and higher likelihood of complications including ventricular remodeling and reduced recovery potential.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from subendocardial infarction; specify wall thickness involvement when describing delayed enhancement.
In Context
- "Late gadolinium enhancement demonstrated transmural infarction involving the entire inferior wall." — Cardiac MRI report
- "The patient developed a transmural anterior MI following complete LAD occlusion." — Clinical case presentation