Relapsing constrictive pericarditis after implantation of an expanded
polytetrafluoroethylene surgical membrane
Abstract
One of the challenges compounding the complexity of reoperative cardiac
surgery are the surgical adhesions, which can be responsible for adverse
intraoperative events. In such situations implantation of a substitute
neo-pericardium has become a frequently used solution for avoiding
injuries to the heart and great vessels, with rising numbers of
reoperations. The pericardium can be reconstructed using biological
(heterologous or autologous) or synthetic material, each having their
pros and cons. In this report we present a case of relapsing
constrictive pericarditis after implantation of expanded
polytetrafluoroethylene neo-pericardium (GORE®). A highly differentiated
algorithm and a careful preoperative review of indication is recommended
in order to plan the optimal method of pericardioplasty, taking into
account the pros and cons of each available material.