Early development of severe constrictive pericarditis after coronary bypass grafting.
A 61-year-old patient developed severe constrictive pericarditis with exertional dyspnea, 3 weeks after coronary bypass surgery. The diagnosis was confirmed by echocardigraphy and computed tomography examination. Despite the short duration of the disease, the pericardium showed a thickness of about 1 cm. Because initial treatment with steroids, diuretics and antiinflammatory drugs was of no avail, the patient underwent pericardiectomy, with a satisfactory outcome. The relatively rapid progress of constriction and the marked thickness of the pericardium that developed after a short period of time are emphasized.
Bergman
Michael
M
Department of Medicine C, Golda Campus, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel. dc375380@netvision.net.il
Sahar
Gideon
G
Vitrai
Janos
J
Salman
Hertzel
H
D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010492:Pericardiectomy; D010494:Pericarditis, Constrictive / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D012307:Risk Factors; D013997:Time Factors; D014463:Ultrasonography