How does CPR contribute to myocardial rupture?

Myocardial rupture is a serious complication that can occur following blunt or penetrating chest trauma, and chest compressions during CPR can inadvertently contribute to this condition. When chest compressions are performed, the mechanical pressure applied to the thoracic cavity can result in increased internal pressure within the heart itself, potentially leading to injury of the myocardial tissue. This mechanical injury can compromise the structural integrity of the heart muscle, making it more susceptible to rupture, especially if pre-existing damage or stress has already occurred due to traumatic events.

In contrast, while increasing blood flow to the heart, restoring normal rhythm, and providing oxygenation are essential goals of CPR, they do not directly contribute to the risk of myocardial rupture. Instead, those actions are typically intended to stabilize the patient and maintain vital organ function during a cardiac emergency. Therefore, the mechanical injuries induced by chest compressions during CPR place significant stress on the heart, which is the primary mechanism that can lead to myocardial rupture in these situations.