[Constrictive pericarditis following heart surgery]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Cardiac Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Postoperative constrictive pericarditis (PCP) is a rare but serious complication that can occur after cardiac surgery.
• This case report details a patient who developed PCP five months after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
• The authors note the lack of previous reports on PCP in Hungary, highlighting the need for increased awareness.

Observation:

• The patient presented with symptoms indicative of constrictive pericarditis following CABG.
• Deterioration of health, particularly severe right heart failure, should raise suspicion for PCP in post-cardiac surgery patients.
• The diagnostic challenge of PCP is underscored, emphasizing the importance of considering it in the differential diagnosis.

Findings:

• The etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of PCP were reviewed based on existing literature.
• The study emphasizes that PCP should be suspected in patients experiencing health decline after open-heart surgery.
• Timely diagnosis is critical for effective management and patient outcomes.

Implications:

• Increased clinical suspicion for PCP is warranted in patients with unexplained deterioration after open-heart surgery.
• Prompt diagnosis of PCP can lead to successful treatment through subsequent open-heart surgery.
• This case contributes to the understanding and reporting of PCP in Hungary, potentially improving patient care.