The role of neurohormonal antagonists in hibernating myocardium

Hibernating myocardium is characterized by chronic reduction of myocardial blood flow due to obstructive coronary artery disease, causing reversible l eft ventricular dysfunction and flow-metabolism mismatch. The condition is unstable and increasing demand may lead to further left ventricular dysfunc tion or necrosis causing death or worsening heart failure. Recognition of t he condition is difficult and requires complex cardiac imaging protocols. T reatment protocols are also poorly defined. This review addresses both the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of hibernating myocardium.