Abstract

Dr. Winston Low and Dr. Alexandar Sterling*

ABSTRACT

Pericardial effusion is a potentially life-threatening condition, often requiring urgent specialist intervention before progression to cardiac tamponade and subsequent cardiac arrest. One such case was seen in Lorne and the Islands emergency department one week post pulmonary endarterectomy for severe pulmonary hypertension. Imaging identified a 35ml effusion with significant chamber compression. This presented a challenging management and retrieval case which was complicated by the patient’s concomitant use of apixaban and remote location. The case is discussed, and a literature review undertaken.