title: Another complication of thoracostomy--perforation of the right atrium.
abstract: Tube thoracostomy is an invasive procedure that is frequently life-saving but carries a risk of complications. We describe herein a complication not documented before-laceration of the right atrium. This occurred in a severely kyphoscoliotic patient with a markedly narrowed chest and led to his demise. This case attests to the extreme caution warranted when using trocar-type thoracostomy in patients with thoracic deformities.
authors: Department of Internal Medicine D, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.
authors: S
authors: S
authors: Meisel
authors: Z
authors: Z
authors: Ram
authors: I
authors: I
authors: Priel
authors: D
authors: D
authors: Nass
authors: P
authors: P
authors: Lieberman
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D006325:Heart Atria / Q000293:injuries; D006335:Heart Injuries / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007738:Kyphosis / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000473:pathology; D013907:Thoracostomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014950:Wounds, Penetrating / Q000209:etiology*