Recurrent pericardial effusion and tamponade after epicardial pacemaker lead placement: a case report.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Epicardial pacemaker placement is often necessary in pacemaker-dependent patients with ongoing device pocket infection or lack of venous access. Pericardial effusion and tamponade are rare but serious complications of this procedure.

Case summary

A 38-year-old woman presented with nausea, diaphoresis, and hypotension 7 days after epicardial lead placement. Echocardiography revealed a large pericardial effusion with signs of tamponade. Despite initial improvement after pericardiocentesis, she continued to develop symptomatic pericardial effusions. The patient ultimately underwent pleuro-pericardial window surgery, which resulted in sustained resolution of effusion recurrence.

Discussion

Cases of recurrent pericardial effusion and tamponade following epicardi

SUBMITTER: Nguyen DQ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9149784 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature