What is the most common mechanical complication of a myocardial infarction?

The most common mechanical complication of a myocardial infarction is aneurysm formation. After a myocardial infarction, especially one that involves significant damage to the heart muscle, the area of the infarct can become weakened and stretched. This is primarily due to the loss of myocardial tissue and alterations in the heart's structure. Over time, the weakened area may bulge outward due to the pressure from the remaining healthy myocardium and the normal contractions of the heart, leading to an aneurysm.

Aneurysms resulting from myocardial infarctions can lead to serious complications, such as heart failure, thrombus formation, and arrhythmias. They typically form in the left ventricle and may require surgical intervention depending on their size and the symptoms they cause. Understanding this complication is crucial for the management and follow-up care of patients post-myocardial infarction, as it can significantly impact their prognosis and quality of life.