Penetrating Injury to the Heart Requiring Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A Case Study

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Department of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery, Nashville, Tennessee

^* Address correspondence to: David P. Webb, MS, CCP, 2986 The Vanderbilt Clinic, Nashville, TN 37232. E-mail: david.webb@mcmail.vanderbilt.edu

Received: 25 January 2001
Accepted: 1 August 2001

Abstract

Penetrating wounds to the heart represent a significant surgical challenge because of their unique clinical course and the need for emergent operative care. This operative care, which may include cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), must be initiated in a prompt yet careful fashion to optimize outcome, while minimizing morbidity. Trauma, because of its unpredictable and nonroutine nature, may present many challenges to the perfusionist in an attempt to anticipate surgical needs and requirements. In this case report, we describe the successful surgical repair of a cardiac nail gun injury, as well as strategies we feel are essential for the safe, successful, and timely application of emergent CPB.