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Bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis after open heart surgery
E Tamayo1, F J Alvarez, S Florez
1Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Valladolid, Spain.
The Journal of Cardiovascular Surgery
|November 8, 2001
Summary
This case report details bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis following open-heart surgery. The patient required prolonged mechanical ventilation but fully recovered diaphragmatic function within two years.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Open-heart surgery, including aortic and mitral valve replacement, carries potential complications.
- Diaphragmatic dysfunction is a rare but serious post-operative sequela.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old male developed bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis post-valve replacement surgery.
- The patient also experienced motor and sensory deficits in all four limbs.
Findings:
- The patient required mechanical ventilation for twenty months due to paralysis.
- Complete recovery of diaphragmatic motion was observed two years after the surgery.
Implications:
- Bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis is an uncommon complication of open-heart procedures.
- Long-term mechanical ventilation may be necessary, with potential for full recovery.