hibernating myocardium
Viable myocardial tissue with chronically reduced function due to prolonged ischemia that can recover with revascularization.
Full Definition
Hibernating myocardium refers to a state of chronic myocardial dysfunction resulting from sustained reduction in coronary blood flow, where viable cardiomyocytes downregulate their contractile function as an adaptive mechanism to match reduced oxygen supply. This represents a protective response that preserves cell viability while sacrificing contractile performance. Unlike stunned myocardium, hibernation persists until adequate blood flow is restored through revascularization. Identification of hibernating myocardium is crucial for clinical decision-making, as these segments can recover function after successful revascularization. Various imaging techniques including dobutamine echocardiography, PET, and MRI can help identify viable hibernating tissue and guide treatment strategies.
In Context
- "PET imaging confirmed the presence of hibernating myocardium in the anterior wall, supporting revascularization." — Nuclear cardiology report
- "The patient's hibernating myocardium showed improved function six months after bypass surgery." — Follow-up echocardiogram report