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Pericardiectomy for radiation-induced constrictive pericarditis.
Nikolaos Barbetakis1, Theocharis Xenikakis, Dimitrios Paliouras
1Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Theagenio Cancer Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece.
Summary
Radiation-induced constrictive pericarditis, a complication of chest radiation therapy, can be effectively treated with surgery. This study highlights satisfactory outcomes for patients, emphasizing the importance of considering this condition in heart failure diagnoses among cancer survivors.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Radiation-induced constrictive pericarditis affects 20% of cancer patients post-chest radiation.
- This condition presents as heart failure in affected individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical experience with radiation-induced constrictive pericarditis.
- To evaluate survival and functional outcomes following surgical intervention.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of six patients (aged 33-61) with prior radiation therapy.
- Patients underwent radical or partial pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis.
- Focus on symptoms of heart failure and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- All patients remained free of cardiovascular events over an 8-year study period.
- Successful treatment of low cardiac output syndrome in 4 patients.
- Demonstrated satisfactory functional outcomes post-surgery.
Conclusions:
- Radiation-induced constrictive pericarditis requires consideration in cancer patients with heart failure.
- Pericardiectomy is the sole effective treatment for this condition.
- Outcomes are influenced by radiation-induced myocardial damage and underlying cancer.
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