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Published on: December 11, 2017
Right atrial perforation by a temporary epicardial pacing wire
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
Insights
Epicardial pacing wire perforation of the heart is rare. This case report details right atrial perforation 10 hours post-coronary artery bypass grafting, highlighting a cause of cardiac tamponade.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Epicardial pacing wires are used post-cardiac surgery for rhythm management.
- Complications, though rare, can occur with indwelling medical devices.
- Cardiac perforation is a serious, life-threatening event.
Abstract:
Cardiac perforation by an epicardial pacing wire is an extremely rare event. A case of right atrial perforation occurring 10 hours after coronary artery bypass grafting is reported. Another cause of bleeding and cardiac tamponade after cardiac operation is therefore illustrated.
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