Right atrium traumatic rupture presenting as chronic tamponade

Abstract

Non-penetrating cardiac traumatisms can cause cardiac rupture, myocardial contusion or, rarely, commotio cordis. In cases of rupture of a cardiac cavity, acute and severe cardiac tamponade almost invariably occurs. This paper presents an exceptionally unusual case of nonpenetrating cardiac trauma resulting in right atrium rupture contained by the pericardial cavity. A situation of exceptional hemodynamic balance was established with subacute, progressive cardiac tamponade that evolved during three months, presenting gradual right-heart failure instead of the expected acute and severe cardiac tamponade. The rupture of the atrium was successfully repaired.