Penetrating Cardiac Injury: A 20-Year Retrospective Analysis at a High-Complexity University Center

Penetrating cardiac injury, though infrequent, is associated with substantial mortality. In 2005, our research team conducted a comprehensive retrospective analysis of penetrating cardiac injuries managed at our facility from 1990 to 2003. Now, two decades later, we conducted the present study on penetrating cardiac injuries attended in our hospital over the last 20 years.

This is a retrospective analysis of medical records and trauma database data, with a focus on survivors of penetrating cardiac trauma, excluding those deceased upon arrival.

Out of 1,093 cases, 25 had penetrating cardiac injuries with an overall mortality rate of 36%. Hemorrhage was the leading cause of death, and survival was correlated with higher systolic blood pressure upon admission and the level of consciousness.

The study highlights the need for rapid intervention and emphasizes the importance of managing bleeding and supporting hemodynamics. It also points to areas for improvement in emergency care and the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration.