Pericardial window procedures: Implications on left ventricular function

AbstractINTRODUCTIONPericardial window procedures are generally designed to relieve pericardial fluid pressure on the heart, in cases of cardiac tamponade, and to restore the hemodynamic stability of the patient. Rarely, however, may acute left ventricular failure develop after creation of a pericardial window.PRESENTATION OF CASEWe describe a patient in whom that complication developed. We are trying to give an insight to the pathophysiology, existence of potential predisposing factors, as well as to propose therapeutic measures.DISCUSSIONAcute heart failure, developing after pericardiocentesis or surgical creation of a pericardial window is an unusual complication, with several theories developed to explain that paradox.CONCLUSIONTreatment is supportive, but that complication of pericardial window procedures may carry a high mortality rate