Acute cardiac rupture complicating pre-discharge exercise testing. A case report with complete echocardiographic follow-up

The case of a 76 year-old male who suffered acute free wall rupture and sudden hemodynamic deterioration during the recovery phase of a pre-discharge exercise testing (performed 7 days after a noncomplicated myocardial infarction) is presented. Usefulness of echocardiography in early diagnosis, management (guiding pericardiocentesis) and follow-up is remarked and, on the other hand, medical treatment after a successful resuscitation is confirmed as an alternative option in these cases.