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Recurrent pericardial effusion can be a manifestation of metastatic malignant disease. Repeated catheter drainage or surgical pericardial window are two common treatment modalities. We report a case of recurrent malignant pericardial effusion treated successfully with percutaneous balloon pericardiotomy, a relatively new technique avoiding the need for surgery.

Chylothorax is defined as a collection of chyle within the pleural cavity secondary to injury of the thoracic duct. We describe a rare case of a contralateral chylothorax resulting from a penetrating wound to the left lower anterior neck region. A 37-year-old male presented to the emergency room with a penetrating stab wound of the left neck. Upon clinical exam, the wound measured about 3–4 cm with minimal bleeding and no expanding hematoma or other hard sign of vascular injury. Subsequently, his right chest tube output developed a milky appearance with a total volume of 260 cc over 24 h. The specimen was sent for triglyceride analysis and confirmed diagnosis of chylothorax. He was managed with conservative therapy not requiring surgical intervention. The anatomical variations arising in the thoracic duct warrant the consideration of possible chylothorax in both right and left pleural effusions secondary to penetrating trauma.

patients have continued to have higher rates of amputation and are more likely to undergo endovascular revascularization.