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Biomedical subjects

L Gehl

Publications and source records attributed to L Gehl.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

Cardiac perforation with tamponade during cardiac catheterization.

Among 6,675 adult patients undergoing cardiac catheterization in our institution, three patients developed cardiac perforation and tamponade (incidence 0.04%). Two perforations involved the left atrium, and one the right atrium. Tamponade developed in the three patients. Hemodynamic confirmation of tamponade was available in two patients. Pericardiocentesis was performed in all three patients. Two patients required emergency surgery. All patients recovered.

Cardiac Catheterization

Transluminal coronary angioplasty complicated by coronary artery perforation.

Transluminal coronary angioplasty may be associated with complications resulting from the dilatation catheter and inflation of the balloon. The most common complications are dissection, occlusion, and coronary spasm. We report an unusual complication of coronary artery perforation by the dilatation catheter resulting in acute pericardial tamponade. The complication was immediately recognized and confirmed by dye injection and hemodynamic measurements. Pericardiocentesis was performed, followed by successful coronary bypass surgery. The reasons for the perforation are unclear. We postulate that the acute angle of the perforated vessel was an important factor for this complication. The importance of a standby cardiac surgeon and operating room is emphasized.

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