[Surgical treatment of 2 cases of irradiation induced constrictive pericarditis]

Kyobu Geka. 1999 Nov;52(12):1048-51.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

<Case 1> A 72-years-old man underwent radiation therapy (62 Gy) for esophageal carcinoma. Twelve months later, symptoms of heart failure such as syncope, cough and hepatomegaly manifested. On catheter study, a dip and plateau pattern of right ventricular pressure curve was evident. Pericardiectomy without extracorporeal circulation was performed. Operative findings and pathological results were compatible with radiation-induced constrictive pericarditis. He recovered from the heart failure, and has been doing well 3 months after the surgery. <Case 2> A 54-years-old man underwent thymectomy for malignant thymoma. He underwent a radiation therapy (52 Gy) postoperatively. After 12 months from the irradiation, syncope and dyspnea manifested. On catheter study, a dip and plateau pattern of right ventricular pressure curve was observed. Pericardiectomy with extracorporeal circulation was performed. He recovered from the heart failure after pericardiectomy, however he died of radiation-induced pneumonitis 6 months later.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pericardiectomy
  • Pericarditis, Constrictive / etiology
  • Pericarditis, Constrictive / surgery*
  • Radiation Pneumonitis / etiology
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Treatment Outcome