Large Pericardial Effusion in a Woman in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy
February 2024
in “
European heart journal. Case reports
”
Studysummary This case report highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex cardio-obstetric patients, as demonstrated by a pregnant woman with a large pericardial effusion successfully treated with a surgical pericardial window.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
A 35-year-old pregnant woman with obstetrical antiphospholipid syndrome and chronic pericardial effusion experienced an enlarged effusion in her second trimester. Despite mild dyspnoea and no signs of cardiac tamponade, a multidisciplinary team recommended a surgical pericardial window due to the high risk of tamponade and hemorrhagic complications from antithrombotic treatment. The procedure was successful, and the patient had an uneventful recovery and delivery. This case underscores the importance of early surgical intervention and a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex cardio-obstetric patients.
