Fatal cardiac tamponade following road traffic accident

Abstract

Cardiac tamponade following blunt trauma results from cardiac rupture, leading to death even before the patient can receive medical attention. In such cases, the collected fluid (blood) in the pericardium inhibits the diastolic filling compressing the myocardium resulting in obstructive shock. We are reporting the case report of a 30-year-old male who was brought dead to the hospital with a history of road traffic accidents. The investigating officer informed that the deceased driver was not wearing a seat belt. Autopsy findings showed fresh blood clots of 600 g in the pericardial sac with rupture of the left ventricular wall of the heart. There were contusions on the anterior aspect of the vertebrae corresponding to the heart level. Although it is impossible to prevent all the cases of cardiac tamponade, we can avoid the ones resulting from trauma. This case intends to stress the importance of wearing a seat belt while driving a car to prevent fatal injuries.

Keywords

• blunt chest trauma
• cardiac rupture
• seat belt
• traumatic cardiac tamponade