Animals (Basel)

. 2024 Feb 16;14(4):633.

 doi: 10.3390/ani14040633. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38396601/

Evidence of Pneumopericardium after Elective Ovariectomy in a Peritoneopericardial Diaphragmatic Hernia-Affected Dog: A Case Report

Debora Campanile ¹, Mariateresa Cafaro ¹, Serena Paci ¹, Michele Panarese ¹, Giammarino Sparapano ¹, Marina Masi ², Antonio De Simone ¹

Affiliations expand

• PMID: 38396601
• PMCID: PMC10886003
• DOI: 10.3390/ani14040633

Free PMC article

Abstract

Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia (PPDH) is an opening between the pericardial sac and the pleuroperitoneal membrane. Pneumopericardium is an infrequent complication of PPDH. This condition is a serious circumstance in which free gas accumulates in the pericardial sac. The present report describes the occurrence of pneumopericardium and pericardial effusion after elective ovariectomy in a dog affected by PPDH. The presence of an umbilical and diaphragmatic hernia was highlighted during ovariectomy, and a pneumopericardium was seen during an X-ray exam. At the time of admission to the hospital, the dog was asymptomatic. The diagnosis was performed by X-ray and ultrasonographic exams. Computed tomography examination confirmed the diagnosis and directed for a surgical approach of the congenital defect. Surgery resulted in resolution of PPDH and of pneumopericardium.

Keywords: cardiac tamponade; congenital malformation; dog; peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia; peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic repair; pneumopericardium.