A rare condition known as commotio cordis, or cardiac commotio, is the leading hypothesis for the cardiac arrest suffered by CD Tenerife player Jesús de Miguel after a collision with Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono, according to emergency medicine specialist Carlos Alonso. The cause has not been confirmed and must be determined by an autopsy.
Commotio cordis can occur when a forceful blow hits the chest during a brief, vulnerable phase of the heart’s cycle, lasting around 20 to 40 milliseconds. The impact can trigger a dangerous arrhythmia that prevents the heart from pumping effectively. Alonso, a member of Spain’s Society of Emergency Medicine and former president of the Spanish Resuscitation Council, described the condition as rare and extremely serious, but potentially reversible with appropriate care.
In cardiac arrest, blood no longer reaches the brain and other organs. Alonso said classic studies show that survival falls by more than 10% for every minute without intervention. The first priority is chest compressions to keep blood circulating, followed by rescue breaths and the use of a defibrillator as soon as one is available.
Other emergency measures may include placing a Guedel airway device to help keep the airway open if an unconscious person’s tongue obstructs it. Alonso cautioned that it must be used carefully when a neck injury may be present. He also said resuscitation should generally continue at the scene, when circumstances allow, to avoid interrupting treatment or worsening injuries during transport.
Investigators are examining what happened on the pitch, including the response and the circumstances of De Miguel’s transfer to the ambulance. The article says sources presume the stadium had the required emergency equipment, but the investigation must establish the details.
At hospital, clinicians assess whether breathing and spontaneous circulation have returned. Further care can include intubation and ventilation, as well as cardiac and neurological assessments, followed by additional tests and treatment in intensive care. Alonso said the autopsy and ongoing inquiries are needed to clarify what happened in De Miguel’s case.
Sources: El País Sociedad.