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The medical community is raising awareness of a rare, yet potentially fatal
syndrome, in which healthy children die after being struck in the chest by an
object, many times a baseball. Experts believe quicker recognition of the
syndrome plus preventative measures such as softer baseballs and special chest
protectors could save lives.
The phenomenon, called commotio cordis or concussion of the heart is a
syndrome where the heart stops beating after a blow to the chest from a baseball
or other high velocity object, according to the American Heart Association.
A study by the Minneapolis Heart Institute identified 55 cases of sudden cardiac
arrest among young sports participants, 90 percent of whom were under 16. None
of children displayed an evidence of heart disease or heart defects.
"Fewer than one in 10 young athletes survived the incident, although all
had normal, healthy hearts," according to Barry J. Maron, M.D., director of
cardiovascular research at the Minneapolis Heart Institute. "But with
faster recognition and prompt action, a large percentage of 'commotio cordis'
cases are potentially reversible with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)."
In addition, Dr. Maron suggested that softer balls (called R-balls) and chest
protectors could help prevent the occurrence of 'commotio cordis' in the first
place.
Currently, Sports Performance Products (SPP) of Atlanta, GA, makes a chest
protector for youth baseball players. The SPP chest protector provides full
protection for the heart, chest, scapula, lungs and upper kidneys for both
right- and left-handed batters.
Made from latest moldable technology, the SPP chest protector is designed to
mold to a player's chest for an exact fit. After wetting, it is fitted around
the chest with an elastic bandage. Within 20 minutes, it hardens into a
protective, lightweight shell. The product features soft foam lining for comfort
and adjustable straps for easy removal. It can be worn under the uniform and
doesn’t hinder freedom of movement.
The baseball chest protector was developed by Dr. Jim Davis of Augusta, GA, a
radiologist, for his son to wear during youth baseball.
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