What complication arises from overstretching of elastic fibers in heart muscles due to dilation?

Overstretching of elastic fibers in the heart muscle, particularly during dilation, leads to a situation where the heart cannot contract effectively. This reduced ability to contract is primarily due to the alteration in the optimal length-tension relationship of the cardiac muscle fibers. When the fibers are overly stretched, their capacity to generate adequate force during contraction diminishes, which directly affects the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. Consequently, this results in decreased cardiac output, as less blood is being ejected with each heartbeat.

In the context of heart function, maintaining the elasticity and proper length of the cardiac muscle fibers is crucial for optimal pumping efficiency. Dilation can be a part of various cardiac conditions, and the resulting overstretching of the heart muscle fibers is a key factor leading to diminished cardiac performance and potential heart failure. This is why the correct answer aligns with the implications of overstretching elastic fibers in heart muscle, emphasizing the importance of proper muscle fiber length for maintaining effective cardiac output.