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Pericardial effusion as a rare complication of a perforated appendicitis

Dominic Ku1, John G Cassey1, Rosauro Mejia1

  • 1John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, NSW 2305, Australia.

International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
|May 3, 2017
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Pericardial effusion is a rare complication of ruptured appendicitis, necessitating intervention in this case. This report highlights a case requiring thoracoscopic pericardotomy for drainage.

Area of Science:

  • General Surgery
  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Disease

Background:

  • Pericardial effusion is a known complication of abdominal pathology.
  • It is rarely reported following ruptured appendicitis.
  • Drainage of pericardial effusion is even rarer in this context.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a rare case of pericardial effusion following ruptured appendicitis.
  • To discuss the management of such a complication.

Main Methods:

  • Case report of a 14-year-old male.
  • Presentation of extensive abdominal abscesses, bilateral pleural effusions, and large pericardial effusion post-laparoscopic appendicectomy.
  • Thoracoscopic pericardotomy for effusion drainage.

Main Results:

  • The patient developed significant pericardial effusion requiring intervention.
  • Literature search revealed only two prior reported cases.
  • No consensus exists on optimal drainage method (percutaneous vs. pericardiotomy).

Conclusions:

  • Pericardial effusion is a very rare complication of advanced appendicitis.
  • A connection exists between the retroperitoneum and mediastinum facilitating this complication.
  • This case serves as a reminder of a rare complication of a common surgical condition.
Keywords:
Perforated appendicitis complicated appendicitisPericardial effusion appendicectomy pericardotomyPleural effusion

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