Struck by Cupid's arrow: penetrating chest trauma
Vivek Tewarson1, Bhupendra Kumar1, Mohammad Zeeshan Hakim1
1Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, King George's Medical University, Shahmina Road, Lucknow, -226003 India.
Indian Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|June 19, 2025
Summary
A penetrating cardiac injury from an iron bar impalement was successfully treated. The patient survived with minimal blood loss and without cardiopulmonary bypass, showcasing effective trauma management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Penetrating cardiac injuries are a significant cause of mortality.
- Hemorrhage and trauma coagulopathy are primary concerns.
- Prompt management is critical for survival.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old male sustained a severe penetrating cardiac injury from an iron bar.
- The impalement involved passage through the right hilum, left atrium, and right ventricle.
- The patient presented 6 hours post-injury with stable vital signs.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of the impaling iron bar was performed.
- The procedure was successfully completed without the need for cardiopulmonary bypass.
- Minimal blood loss was reported during the surgical intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights the feasibility of managing complex penetrating cardiac injuries without cardiopulmonary bypass.
- It underscores the importance of timely surgical intervention in severe trauma cases.
- The successful outcome suggests potential for improved survival rates in similar critical injuries.
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