Clinical Profile and Spectrum of Commotio Cordis

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Abstract
Sudden and unexpected deaths of young individuals are highly visible and emotionally charged events.1-3 These deaths are frequently the consequence of unsuspected congenital cardiovascular diseases3-6 in trained athletes. However, organized sports are subject to another risk for sudden death (ie, blunt, nonpenetrating, and usually innocent-appearing chest blows, commotio cordis).7-12 However, the spectrum of commotio cordis is diverse, and the risks considerably more pervasive. In this study we characterize more completely the evolving and heterogeneous clinical profile of chest blows causing sudden death.