Abstract
This case report discusses a successfully treated right atrial rupture secondary to blunt chest trauma. Secondary cardiovascular collapse requiring resuscitation occurred following suture repair of the 3 cm atrial laceration in the operating room (OR). Here we present a 15-year-old male who arrived by emergency medical services (EMS) to the emergency department (ED) as a level 1 trauma activation following a motor vehicle accident. Imaging scan showed a right hemothorax. Persistent labile blood pressures necessitated a thoracotomy. Exploration revealed a 3 cm laceration in the right atrium and prompt suture repair of the laceration was followed by secondary cardiovascular collapse. The patient developed supraventricular tachycardia, profound hypotension, and a temporary loss of circulation. Intensive resuscitation of the patient with intrathoracic cardiac massage and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) was begun, and the patient was able to regain a sinus perfusing rhythm with stable blood pressures. The patient was discharged 3 weeks later in stable condition. To the best of our knowledge, this is the 30th case report since 1955 documenting a survivor of blunt cardiac rupture. This case highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of blunt cardiac rupture as well as its potential secondary manifestations and lends for a discussion of tamponade and thoracic trauma physiology.
Recommended Citation
Mohs JD, Alvine OG, Jensen SC. Successful Repair of Right Atrial Rupture Secondary to Blunt Chest Trauma: A Case Report and Discussion. Aesculapius. 2025 Jan 14; 6(2025):Article 2. Available from: https://red.library.usd.edu/aesculapius/vol6/iss2025/2. Free full text article.
