Commotio Cordis Is Real, According to Experts, and More Awareness Can Save Lives
Commotio cordis, a rare but significant cause of sudden death, especially among young individuals, has been confirmed by experts. This condition can occur without pre-existing heart disease and is often associated with physical impact to the chest during sports or everyday activities. The severity of the chest blow that triggers commotio cordis can vary, making it crucial to quickly identify and respond to such events. Immediate CPR or defibrillation can reverse cardiac arrest and potentially save lives. Although the exact cause of commotio cordis is not fully understood, experts believe it involves a chest blow striking the heart during a specific 20 ms period of the T wave’s upstroke.
In an article published in Heart Rhythm Case Reports, the case of an 18-year-old basketball player who experienced commotio cordis leading to cardiac arrest is discussed. This unique case is notable because it has been validated and documented using an ECG and video evidence of the event. The player’s life was saved thanks to the swift action of onlookers.
Just last month, commotio cordis received significant attention when Damar Hamlin, a defensive player for the Buffalo Bills, suffered a chest impact during a collision in a professional football game. The incident, witnessed by millions on television, highlighted the importance of rapid cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation in saving lives.
Now, in Bucharest, Romania, another commotio cordis event occurred during a youth basketball tournament game. An 18-year-old player was struck in the chest by an opponent’s elbow, leading to his collapse on the court. Fortunately, immediate CPR and one defibrillation shock revived him.
Commotio cordis events have been reported in over 20 countries worldwide, but they are incredibly rare and often unexpected, as demonstrated by this case. Ventricular fibrillation, the abnormal heart rhythm triggered by a blow over the heart, requires precise timing within a narrow 20 ms window during the T wave’s upstroke.
Following the incident, the player was evaluated at Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington, MA, USA, under the care of Dr. Barry J. Maron. Dr. Maron emphasized the existence of commotio cordis, stating that the documented case validates its reality. He urged for increased awareness of this condition, which can be reversed with prompt intervention.
The basketball player was previously healthy and had no family history of cardiovascular disease. When examined six weeks after the cardiac arrest, he showed no symptoms or residual medical problems and had successfully resumed his normal activities.
This case report expands our understanding of commotio cordis within the context of non-contact sports like competitive basketball. While previous associations were primarily with contact sports like baseball/softball and hockey, this incident emphasizes that commotio cordis can occur in any situation involving physical contact or chest blows.
Dr. Maron concluded by dispelling skepticism surrounding commotio cordis, underscoring the importance of understanding that it can occur unexpectedly in various circumstances. This well-documented case sheds light on the reality of this condition.
Increased awareness and knowledge about commotio cordis can play a vital role in preventing tragic outcomes. By recognizing the signs, providing immediate assistance, and implementing CPR and defibrillation, lives can be saved. It is crucial to spread awareness about this condition to athletes, coaches, parents, and medical professionals, allowing them to respond effectively in case of an emergency.
In conclusion, commotio cordis is a real phenomenon that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. This recent case involving a basketball player reinforces the importance of awareness, early intervention, and appropriate medical response. By working together, we can save lives and prevent further tragedies caused by commotio cordis.
Reference: Commotio cordis…once again: Unusual occurrence in a noncontact sport by Barry J. Maron, Ethan J. Rowin and Martin S. Maron, 13 November 2023, HeartRhythm Case Reports.
DOI: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2023.10.013
