Professional accountability in a sternal bone marrow aspiration: a forensic case report
Sami Bardaa1, Narjes Karray1, Zouhir Hammami1
1Department of Forensic Medicine, Habib Bourguiba University Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia.
Abstract:
An aortic injury with concomitant pericardial tamponade caused by sternal bone marrow aspiration is rare. We report a case of fatal sternal bone marrow aspiration performed to a 73 year old man for the purpose of confirming the diagnosis of multiple myeloma. This puncture was followed by an injury in the aorta causing a pericardial tamponade and the death of the patient immediately after the aspiration. This paper stresses the precautions to be taken, by the operator, in certain particular situations that make the sternal bone marrow aspiration difficult and risky, and discusses the different types of operator´s liability that can be involved and their foundations.
Insights
A rare complication of sternal bone marrow aspiration, aortic injury leading to pericardial tamponade, caused a fatal outcome in a multiple myeloma patient. This case highlights the need for operator precautions during difficult procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Hematology
- Medical Malpractice
Background:
- Sternal bone marrow aspiration is a common diagnostic procedure.
- Complications, though rare, can be severe.
- Aortic injury and pericardial tamponade are infrequent but life-threatening risks.
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