Pneumopericardium- An Unusual Complication Following Transseptal Puncture: A Series of 3 Cases

JACC Case Rep. 2022 Jun 1;4(11):671-676. doi: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2022.03.030.

Abstract

Transseptal puncture (TSP) is performed to access the left side of the heart from the venous circulation. Performed under fluoroscopy with echocardiographic guidance, it is a procedure associated with complications. Pneumopericardium leading to cardiac tamponade is rare following TSP. We present 3 cases of pneumopericardium during TSP and its identification, probable mechanism, and management. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.).

Keywords: BMV, balloon mitral valvotomy; ICE, intracardiac echocardiography; LA, left atrial; MS, mitral stenosis; RA, right atrial; RAA, right atrial appendage; TEE, transesophageal echocardiography; TSP, transseptal puncture; mitral valve; rheumatic heart disease; tamponade.

Publication types

  • Case Reports