Rare Case of Right Ventricular Perforation during Pericardiocentesis: A Case Report

Abstract

Iatrogenic cardiac injuries are potential complications arising from diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in cardiology, including interventions like cardiac catheterization, coronary angioplasty, and pacemaker implantation ­­[1,2]. Pericardial tamponade can occur, with a prevalence of 0.12%, often requiring urgent intervention such as pericardiocentesis. Patients with chronic pericardial effusion and signs of tamponade may adapt to gradual fluid accumulation, but vigilance for iatrogenic injuries remains crucial. Transthoracic echocardiography aids in rapid diagnosis and guides timely interventions [3]. Therefore, the right ventricular perforation seems to be one of these complications, and it may occur during pericardiocentesis. Surgical approaches for acute tamponades vary, with median sternotomy enabling comprehensive exploration [4]. Echocardiographic monitoring can signal clinical deterioration, necessitating prompt fluid management and early intervention to optimize outcomes. Although, the therapies in right ventricular perforation are variable. In our case, we emphasize about the conservative approach.