Prevention of cardiac tamponade by left intercostal Pericardiotomy for massive recurrent pericardial effusion: a case report

Abstract

This case involved an 89-year-old woman with a history of left nephrectomy for left renal cell carcinoma at the age of 87 years. She had been gradually accumulating pericardial effusion for the past 4 years. She presented with signs of tachycardia and hypotension suggestive of cardiac tamponade due to pericardial effusion, and pericardiocentesis was performed below the xiphoid process in the cardiology department. Serous fluid was aspirated, and malignancy was ruled out by various tests. The patient subsequently developed recurrent pericardial effusion and was admitted to the hospital. Cardiovascular surgery was performed for pericardial drainage. A left intercostal incision was made for pericardiotomy and drainage of the pericardial effusion, allowing it to accumulate in the left pleural cavity in case of future accumulation. Pathological examination of the pericardium revealed no specific findings, and no cancer cells were present in the pericardial fluid. Prednisolone therapy was initiated for idiopathic pericarditis.