Cardiac contusion is an injury, or bruise, to the heart. This means that the chambers of the heart (atria and ventricles) are injured by a strong blow (trauma) to the chest area.
Mild injuries to the heart may cause no symptoms. More serious trauma to the heart may cause pain and an irregular heartbeat. In rare cases, it can lead to shock and death. Depending on the trauma or accident, other body parts, such as the lungs and ribs, may also be injured. Prompt treatment is important to avoid complications.
What are the causes?
The cause of this condition is chest trauma. Chest trauma may be caused by:
A car or bike accident.
Sports accidents.
CPR.
Falling.
What increases the risk?
The following factors may make you more likely to