Delayed presentation of traumatic ventricular septal defect and mitral leaflet perforation

Emerg Med J. 2005 Jul;22(7):521-2.

Abstract

A case of intracardiac stabbing is reported. The victim sustained injuries disproportionate to his initial presentation. These included a ventricular septal defect and mitral valve leaflet perforation. The need for immediate referral to a cardiothoracic unit and the importance of the use of echocardiography is stressed. This enables the safest and most appropriate management of potentially lethal injuries.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Echocardiography, Transesophageal
  • Heart Injuries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Heart Injuries / etiology
  • Heart Septum / injuries
  • Heart Ventricles / injuries
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mitral Valve / injuries
  • Wounds, Stab / diagnostic imaging*