Case Report

Delayed Posttraumatic Tamponade

Authors: DRAKE BELLANGER MD, DIMITRIS J. NIKAS MD, JENNY E. FREEMAN MD, SETH IZENBERG MD

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Delayed cardiac tamponade is a rare phenomenon with two primary causes: delayed hemorrhage after an acute injury or delayed pericarditis with effusion. We present a case of cardiac tamponade 4 weeks after injury, with findings compatible with delayed hemorrhage and pericarditis. Our case emphasizes the need for follow-up of patients with penetrating chest trauma for several months after injury; echocardiography should be used if symptoms of tamponade appear.

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References