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Low-Cost Single-Port (LoCoSP) Device for a Transcervical Approach in Minimally Invasive Transhiatal Esophagectomy
Published on: September 11, 2021
Tension colothorax causing cardiac tamponade: A life-threatening complication following transhiatal oesophagectomy
Jui Y Lagoo1, Bindu George, Kshma A Kilpadi
1Department of Anaesthesia, St John's Medical College Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Abstract:
Postoperative diaphragmatic hernia following transhiatal oesophagectomy is a rare but potentially life threatening complication. We describe a case of a 65 year old patient who developed diaphragmatic hernia following oesophagectomy and presented with cardio pulmonary compromise. During surgery, haemodynamic instability continued despite fluid resuscitation and noradrenaline infusion. An immediate improvement in the haemodynamics and reduction in airway pressure occurred on reduction of the herniated colon from the thoracic cavity. This can be explained by tension colothorax causing collapse of the underlying lung and cardiac tamponade. It is a surgical emergency requiring urgent decompression for resuscitation. The etiology, clinical presentation, pathophysiology and preventive measures are discussed.
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