Case of Traumatic Coronary Artery Dissection

A young woman presented with chest pain after being struck in the sternum by a hockey stick during a game, which initially seemed to result in minor discomfort. Despite finishing the game, her symptoms worsened over several hours, prompting her visit to the emergency department. Upon arrival, she exhibited significant distress, prompting further investigation that revealed an anterolateral ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) pattern on her ECG, indicating a serious cardiac event. The rapid deterioration led to a ventricular fibrillation arrest, necessitating immediate ACLS protocols, ultimately leading to the discovery of a traumatic coronary dissection.