Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 15, 2025
11:28
A Coupled Experiment-finite Element Modeling Methodology for Assessing High Strain Rate Mechanical Response of Soft Biomaterials
Published on: May 18, 2015
12.6K
A Young Patient With Gunshot Wounds
Iclal Ocak1, Lydia Chelala1, Furkan Ufuk1
1Department of Radiology, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|July 13, 2025
Summary
Early diagnosis of cardiac herniation after pericardial rupture is critical. Imaging findings on radiography and CT can guide prompt intervention, improving outcomes for this life-threatening condition.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Cardiothoracic Radiology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Cardiac herniation post-pericardial rupture is a rare, life-threatening trauma complication.
- Subtle initial imaging findings and delayed diagnosis can lead to rapid clinical deterioration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize early diagnosis and intervention for cardiac herniation following traumatic pericardial rupture.
- To identify key radiographic and CT findings for emergent management guidance.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 20-year-old male with gunshot wounds to the chest and back.
- Initial chest radiography and computed tomography (CT) evaluated mediastinal and cardiac displacement.
- Emergency thoracotomy confirmed pericardial rupture and cardiac herniation.
Main Results:
- Radiography showed mediastinal/cardiac displacement and absent right heart border.
- CT revealed levocardia, cardiac levorotation, pulmonary artery kinking, left atrial compression, and pneumopericardium.
- Successful surgical repositioning of the heart and repair of the pericardial defect.
Conclusions:
- Early imaging is crucial for diagnosing cardiac herniation.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are vital for managing this high-mortality condition.
