Abstract
Left ventricular rupture may occur as a complication of acute myocardial infarction and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The risk associated with impending rupture of the left ventricular free wall has not been quantified but it is likely a predisposing factor to complete rupture. Few cases of impending rupture of the left ventricular free wall have been discussed in the literature; we present one such case and describe simple operative management with an autologous pericardial patch and subsequent outcome. (c) 2010 Published by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.