Pericarditis following pneumonectomy for pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract

Summary Before admitting the diagnosis of cardiac decompensation after a pneumonectomy for pulmonary tuberculosis, one should first rule out the possibility of an exudative pericarditis. Though common, this complication my occur early, but also a very long time after the operation. Pericarditis should be suspected whenever the patient has a prolonged period of high fever after the operation. The negative T wave may be absent for a long time from the ECG and the roentogram may be difficult to interpret. A post-operative effusion in the thorax can easily conceal an enlargement of the heart shadow. The prognosis is poor but on several occasions pericardial punctures have brought about a complete cure.