Left ventricular hernia in a pediatric transplant recipient: case report and review of the literature

Pediatr Cardiol. 2009 Jan;30(1):55-8. doi: 10.1007/s00246-008-9245-9. Epub 2008 Jun 6.

Abstract

Cardiac hernias are rare occurrences resulting from congenital pericardial defects, trauma, or postsurgical changes. Difficult to diagnose, they can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. The first reported case of left ventricular herniation in a pediatric cardiac transplant recipient is presented, and the literature concerning diagnosis and management is reviewed. Clinicians must have a high index of suspicion to diagnose this rare and potentially lethal defect.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Heart Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Heart Ventricles / pathology*
  • Heart Ventricles / surgery
  • Hernia / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pericardium / pathology*
  • Pericardium / surgery
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / diagnosis*
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / pathology
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / surgery