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Pericardial mass mimicking constrictive pericarditis
W H Hartl1, E Kreuzer, E Reuschel-Janetschek
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, Klinikum Grosshadern, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Federal Republic of Germany.
Insights
A rare case of persistent pericardial hematoma from blunt chest trauma caused constricted myocardium. Surgical removal of the hematoma
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Blunt chest trauma can lead to rare complications.
- Persistent pericardial hematoma is an uncommon sequela.
Observation:
- A large, partially organized hematoma in the right cardiophrenic angle was identified.
- The hematoma was linked to an occupational accident 17 years prior.
Findings:
- The pericardial hematoma caused constriction of the myocardium.
- Complete removal of the hematoma's fibrous capsule was necessary for relief.
Implications:
- This case highlights a delayed presentation of pericardial hematoma.
- Surgical intervention is crucial for managing myocardial constriction due to organized hematomas.
Abstract:
Persistent pericardial hematoma due to blunt chest trauma is extremely rare. We report a case of constricted myocardium resulting from a large, partially organized hematoma in the right cardiophrenic angle. The hematoma was assumed to be caused by an occupational accident 17 years before diagnosis. Constriction could only be controlled by complete removal of the fibrous posterior capsule of the hematoma, which covered the epicardium of the right heart.