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Post-traumatic internal mammary artery pseudoaneurysm: A rare complication of pericardiocentesis
Sanjay Mehra1, Ashesh Buch1, Crystal N Truong2
1Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC.
Insights
Ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis significantly reduces complications compared to traditional methods. This case highlights a rare internal mammary artery pseudoaneurysm complication following the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Interventional Procedures
Background:
- Percutaneous pericardiocentesis historically had high mortality and complication rates.
- Ultrasound (US) guidance has improved procedural safety and efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To illustrate the benefits of US-guided pericardiocentesis.
- To report a rare complication of internal mammary artery pseudoaneurysm after pericardiocentesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing ultrasound to visualize the heart and surrounding structures.
- Guiding pericardiocentesis to determine effusion characteristics and optimal access.
- Reviewing a case of posttraumatic internal mammary artery pseudoaneurysm.
Main Results:
- Ultrasound guidance allows for precise localization of pericardial effusions.
- It aids in identifying vital structures and optimizing needle trajectory.
- A rare case of internal mammary artery pseudoaneurysm was identified post-procedure.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis is a safer alternative to traditional methods.
- Physicians must remain vigilant for rare complications like pseudoaneurysms.
- This case underscores the importance of anatomical awareness during pericardiocentesis.
Abstract:
Before the advent of ultrasound, percutaneous pericardiocentesis was associated with relatively high mortality and complication rates (6% and 20-50%, respectively) [1-3]. Ultrasound (US)-guided pericardiocentesis has dramatically decreased the incidence of complications by direct visualization of the heart and other adjacent vital structures. US helps localize the size and location of the pericardial effusion, measure the distance from the chest wall, localize adjacent, vital organs, and determine the optimal access site to the effusion. We report a case of posttraumatic internal mammary artery pseudoaneurysm, a rare complication of pericardiocentesis.
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