Right ventricular rupture during closed-chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation after pneumonectomy with pericardiotomy

Abstract

SETTING: The collapse of a patient immediately after right pneumonectomy with right pericardiotomy resulted in closed-chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation, subsequent thoracotomy, and demise secondary to right ventricular rupture. INTERVENTIONS: Closed-chest resuscitation with opened and closed chest tubes and medical and fluid interventions were inadequate, necessitating subsequent thoracotomy. MAIN RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Right ventricular rupture during resuscitation was found during subsequent thoracotomy. This rupture and inadequacy of closed-chest resuscitation were felt to be associated with the operative pneumonectomy and pericardiotomy. Pathophysiology and the role of open-heart vs. closed-chest resuscitative measures are discussed.