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Updated: Jun 11, 2026
06:10
Utilizing Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Devices in Acute Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: June 12, 2021
An unusual complication following pericardiocentesis: reversible left ventricular dysfunction
Francesco Versaci1, Roberto Donati, Roberto Mezzanotte
1aInvasive Cardiology Unit, Giovanni Battista Grassi Hospital - Tor Vergata University bDivision of Cardiology Giovanni Battista Grassi Hospital cDivision of Cardiovascular Surgery Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy.
Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine (Hagerstown, Md.)
|July 14, 2010
Summary
A rare case of transient left ventricular dysfunction occurred after pericardiocentesis for cardiac tamponade following mitral valve repair. This complication resolved within 10 days, highlighting the importance of understanding its underlying mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Medical Complications
Background:
- Surgical mitral valve repair can lead to delayed complications such as cardiac tamponade.
- Cardiac tamponade requires urgent management, often involving pericardiocentesis.
Observation:
- A 78-year-old woman presented with cardiac tamponade 3 months post-mitral valve repair.
- Following pericardiocentesis and pericardial effusion removal, the patient developed early left ventricular dysfunction.
Findings:
- The transient left ventricular dysfunction resolved spontaneously within 10 days.
- This represents a very rare complication associated with pericardiocentesis.
Implications:
- Understanding the pathophysiology of transient ventricular dysfunction post-pericardiocentesis is crucial.
- Further research into the mechanisms of this rare phenomenon is warranted to improve patient outcomes.
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