Another complication of thoracostomy--perforation of the right atrium.
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.
Meisel
S
S
Department of Internal Medicine D, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.
Ram
Z
Z
Priel
I
I
Nass
D
D
Lieberman
P
P
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*