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Published on: July 7, 2013
Iatrogenic Cardiac Tamponade During Endovascular Aortic and Mesenteric Stent Grafting: A Case Report
Ingrid Haller1, Wolfgang Lederer, Martina Stichlberger
1From the *Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine; †Department of Vascular Surgery; and ‡Department of Radiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
Insights
A rare complication during endovascular stent grafting is left ventricular perforation, leading to cardiac tamponade. Awareness among anesthesiologists and radiologists is crucial for prompt diagnosis and management of this severe event.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Endovascular aortic and mesenteric stent grafting are advanced procedures for treating complex vascular diseases.
- These minimally invasive techniques aim to reduce surgical risks and recovery times.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing endovascular stent grafting experienced a sudden increase in central venous pressure and a drop in blood pressure.
- Transesophageal echocardiography confirmed cardiac tamponade, a critical condition where fluid accumulates around the heart.
Findings:
- The underlying cause was identified as a left ventricular perforation.
- Surgical intervention via emergency sternotomy was required to address the perforation.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but life-threatening complication associated with endovascular stent grafting procedures.
- Anesthesiologists and interventional radiologists must maintain high vigilance for cardiac tamponade and ventricular perforation.
- Enhanced awareness and preparedness can improve patient outcomes in managing such emergent situations.
Abstract:
The authors report a case of left ventricular perforation and cardiac tamponade in a patient undergoing endovascular aortic and mesenteric stent grafting. During the procedure, the anesthetist noticed a sudden increase in central venous pressure and a decrease in blood pressure. Cardiac tamponade was suspected and confirmed by transesophageal echocardiography. Pericardiotomy resulted only in temporary stabilization. Emergency sternotomy revealed left ventricular perforation. Both anesthetists and radiologists have to be aware of such rare but severe complications of interventional procedures.
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