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A Huge Pericardial Gossypiboma Causing Severe Cardiac Dysfunction
Won Kyung Pyo1, Wan Kee Kim1, Joon Bum Kim1
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
Abstract:
Gossypiboma-a surgical cotton matrix inadvertently left in the body cavity-is a rare postoperative complication, especially after cardiac surgery. We report a patient who presented with severe cardiac dysfunction caused by a huge pericardial gossypiboma that was detected 30 years after the previous cardiac surgery. This case delineates the serious medical consequences caused by pericardial gossypiboma and suggests considering gossypiboma as a differential diagnosis of a pericardial mass in patients with a history of cardiac surgery.
Insights
Gossypiboma, a retained surgical sponge, is a rare complication. A large pericardial gossypiboma caused severe cardiac dysfunction 30 years after cardiac surgery, highlighting its potential for serious medical consequences.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Surgical Complications
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Gossypiboma, a retained surgical sponge, is a rare postoperative complication.
- It is particularly uncommon following cardiac surgery, often presenting years later.
Observation:
- A patient presented with severe cardiac dysfunction.
- A huge pericardial gossypiboma was detected 30 years after prior cardiac surgery.
Findings:
- The pericardial gossypiboma was the cause of the patient's severe cardiac dysfunction.
- This case highlights the significant, delayed impact of gossypiboma.
Implications:
- Gossypiboma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pericardial masses in patients with a history of cardiac surgery.
- Early recognition and management are crucial to prevent severe cardiac complications.
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