Pulsation Retrosternal

Retrosternal Pulsation: Basics and Clinical Significance

Substernal pulsation, also known as retrosternal pulsation, is a phenomenon that is associated with the sensation of pulsation in the area behind the sternum. This observation may be an important indicator of certain pathological conditions, the analysis of which helps doctors diagnose and treat patients.

Substernal pulsation is usually felt in the sternum area, behind the sternal region of the sternum. This location corresponds to the location of the aorta, the main arterial vessel that is responsible for supplying blood to organs and tissues. Normally, aortic pulsation is not felt upon palpation, however, in some cases, patients may experience a sensation of pulsation in this area.

Substernal pulsation can be associated with various pathological conditions and diseases. Some of them include:

1. Arterial hypertension: High blood pressure can lead to increased pulsation in the chest area. This is due to increased pressure in the aorta and increased heart contractions.

2. Aortic regurgitation: This is a heart condition in which the aortic valve does not close completely, causing blood to flow back into the left ventricle. As a result, increased pulsation occurs in the retrosternal area.

3. Aortic aneurysm: An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal enlargement of the aorta. If the aneurysm is large, it can cause a sensation of pulsation in the retrosternal area.

4. Congenital heart defects: Some congenital heart defects can lead to increased pulsation in the chest area. It is associated with abnormalities in the structure and function of the heart.

5. Other Conditions: Some other conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, pericarditis and aortitis, may also present with increased pulsation in the substernal area.

The feeling of pulsation in the chest is not an independent diagnostic criterion for a particular disease. It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, decreased physical endurance and changes in blood pressure. If a retrosternal pulsation is detected, you should consult a doctor for additional examination and determine the cause of this phenomenon.

Doctors use various research methods to determine the cause of chest pulsation. This may include a physical examination with auscultation of the heart and blood vessels, blood pressure measurements, electrocardiography, ultrasound of the heart (echocardiography), computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to obtain more detailed information about the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels.

Treatment of retrosternal pulsation depends on the underlying disease that causes this phenomenon. In case of hypertension, lifestyle changes may be required, as well as the prescription of antihypertensive drugs. Aortic regurgitation and aortic aneurysm may require surgery to correct defects or replace damaged vessels. Congenital heart defects may require surgical correction depending on their type and severity.

It is important to note that self-diagnosis and self-medication in the case of retrosternal pulsation are not recommended. If you have a sensation of throbbing in the chest area or related symptoms, consult your doctor for professional advice and recommendations.

In conclusion, we can say that retrosternal pulsation is an important clinical sign that may indicate the presence of pathological conditions of the heart and blood vessels. Early consultation with a doctor and timely diagnosis will help determine the cause of chest pulsation and prescribe appropriate treatment to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system.

Retrosternal pulsation (RETROSTERNAL P.) - rare rhythmic contractions or rhythmic fluctuations perceived at a distance from the heart area, above the sternum between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the sternum. It is observed with a hyperkinetic type of blood circulation (extrasystole, atrial fibrillation after damage to the valvular apparatus of the heart, subaortic location of the aorta), heart defects (mitral stenosis or pulmonary disease), and valve insufficiency [1].

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