Abstract
Introduction: Pericardial hematoma is defined as an accumulation of blood in the pericardial space, located in close proximity to the myocardium and deep to the fibrous pericardial sac, which encloses the heart.
Case Description: We present a rare case of pericardial hematoma following percutaneous coronary intervention in an individual presenting with stenotic vein graft following symptoms of a myocardial infarction. Initial computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated hematoma in the pericardial space. This finding was managed conservatively and hematoma was deemed stable on serial CT scans.
Discussion: In this urgent situation, CT imaging proves valuable due to its speed, convenience, and accuracy in visualizing the target area from different perspectives. Although patients may appear stable initially after a perforation, a pericardial hematoma can rapidly spread, leading to unstable blood flow that requires prompt intervention and long-term monitoring.
Recommended Citation
Evanson D, Delman A, Romeo M. Pericardial Hematoma Following Coronary Angiography. Transformative Medicine. 2023; 2(3):61-64. doi: https://doi.org/10.54299/tmed/nyoc8399.