Delayed presentation of ventricular septal defect secondary to penetrating cardiac trauma following stab wound to the chest

Abstract

• Ventricular septal defect represents an uncommon sequel of penetrating cardiac trauma. A high index of suspicion, follow- up, and a complete evaluation of the patient who survives a penetrating heart injury is required. We report an unusual case of posttraumatic ventricular septal defect in a patient who had a stab injury to the chest requiring emergency operation. After the first surgery, the patient presented with dyspnea and signs of heart failure. Intraoperative assessment revealed ventricular septal defect.
• KEY WORDS: Heart injuries, diagnosis, ventricular septal defect, penetrating wounds.