Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Fully Endoscopic Mitral Valve Repair with Percutaneous Cannulation of Groin Vessels
Published on: May 26, 2023
Successful surgical management of penetrating cardiac injury
1Department of Surgery, Shimizu City Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan.
Insights
This case report details the successful emergency repair of a penetrating left ventricular injury and associated thoracoabdominal trauma. It highlights the critical management of cardiac injuries and the potential for delayed rupture.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Penetrating cardiac injuries are life-threatening emergencies requiring prompt surgical intervention.
- Thoracoabdominal trauma presents complex challenges due to the proximity of vital organs.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for patient survival and favorable outcomes.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old male presented with penetrating thoracoabdominal injuries and shock.
- Computed tomography (CT) indicated a left ventricular injury, necessitating emergency thoracotomy.
- Initial repair of the left ventricular laceration, superior mesenteric artery, and small bowel was performed without cardiopulmonary bypass.
Findings:
- The patient experienced cardiac arrest during surgery but recovered neurologically intact.
- Postoperative echocardiogram, CT, and cardiac catheterization revealed a delayed rupture of the left ventricle.
- The patient was transferred for elective cardiac surgery on postoperative day 28.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant postoperative monitoring for delayed complications after penetrating cardiac injuries.
- The successful management highlights the feasibility of repairing complex cardiac and vascular injuries, even in critical conditions.
- Effective multidisciplinary care is essential for optimizing outcomes in patients with severe thoracoabdominal trauma and cardiac involvement.
Abstract:
A 60-year-old Asian man who suffered penetrating thoracoabdominal injuries was admitted to our hospital in a state of shock. Because the results of a chest computed tomogram (CT) strongly suggested a left ventricular injury, an emergency thoracotomy was performed. A laceration of the left ventricle (3 cm) was sutured and was closed without cardiopulmonary bypass, and coexisting lacerations of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and small bowel were surgically repaired. During the procedure, cardiac arrest occurred, but the patient recovered without any apparent neurologic deficit. Postoperative examinations using echocardiogram, CT, and cardiac catheterization revealed a delayed rupture of the left ventricle. On the 28th day after surgery, he was transferred to another hospital for elective cardiac surgery. Primary management of penetrating cardiac injury is discussed in this report.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
Pericarditis III: Medical Management
Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management

