Saving the life of a patient with a "broken heart"

On October 28th, Cho Ray Hospital announced that it had successfully collaborated with Tu Du Hospital to save a patient with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy – also known as "broken heart syndrome" – who was in critical condition, thanks to the activation of a 24/7 extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) system.

Previously, on October 17th, patient VTB (42 years old, residing in Dak Lak ) experienced cardiac arrest twice during surgery at Tu Du Hospital. The medical team made strenuous efforts to resuscitate the patient, helping his heart beat again. Simultaneously, the cardiology team from Cho Ray Hospital immediately arrived after receiving the request for a consultation.

Assessing the situation, the doctors decided to transfer the patient to Cho Ray Hospital due to severe cardiogenic shock and the need for urgent circulatory support.

The patient is being monitored and treated at Cho Ray Hospital.

In the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, echocardiogram results revealed typical patterns of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy—a stress-induced form of cardiomyopathy. Also known as "broken heart syndrome," it is easily confused with acute myocardial infarction.

Immediately, the team activated the 24/7 extracorporeal cardiopulmonary support protocol, placing an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) system to create a "window" for the myocardium to recover.

Thanks to a good response to treatment, after 10 days, the patient was extubated, switched to oxygen via cannula, and vital signs stabilized.

Associate Professor, Doctor Hoang Van Sy, Head of the Cardiology Department at Cho Ray Hospital, said: "This was a very serious case with a sudden progression. The timely coordination between the two hospitals played a decisive role in the successful treatment outcome."

Broken heart syndrome can be triggered by physical or psychological stress, especially in patients undergoing major surgery. Doctors note that women, particularly during menopause, should be vigilant for symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath after stress or surgery. These could be signs of serious cardiovascular conditions such as myocardial infarction or Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

GIAO LINH

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/cuu-song-benh-nhan-co-trai-tim-tan-vo-post820352.html