Embolic Hypodermic Needle Causing Traumatic Cardiac Tamponade: A Case Report
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Published on: September 9, 2020
Albert F Yen1, Christina M Homer2, Alexander Mohapatra2
1Division of Critical Care, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Care, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
Abstract:
We present a unique case of a broken fragment of a hypodermic needle breaking and embolizing to the heart. This needle subsequently penetrated the right ventricle and the patient developed hemopericardium which resulted in cardiac tamponade physiology.
Data Sources:
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Study Selection:
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Data Extraction:
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Data Synthesis:
Recognizing the potential for unusual and serious complications of IV illicit drug use is an important part of providing effective and timely medical care in this vulnerable population.
Conclusions:
An embolic needle phenomenon can have significant sequela, including direct cardiac trauma leading to tamponade and subsequent cardiac collapse. Partnering with the patient to take a detailed history was critical in uncovering the underlying etiology of this patient's cardiogenic shock.
