Percutaneous closure of accidental iatrogenic right atrial perforation

Abstract

Pericardiocentesis, a potentially life-saving procedure, may result in complications in the form of cardiac perforation. Emergency open cardiac surgery – the standard of care for the management of iatrogenic or traumatic cardiac perforations is associated with a poor outcome in high risk patients. We discuss in this report an accidental iatrogenic right atrial puncture which was successfully closed with a percutaneous closure device.

Keywords

• Cardiac tamponade
• Pericardiocentesis
• Right atrial puncture
• Pericardial effusion
• Vascular closure device