Embolic Hypodermic Needle Causing Traumatic Cardiac Tamponade: A Case Report.

ABSTRACT

We present a unique case of a broken fragment of a hypodermic needle breaking and embolizing to the heart. This needle subsequently penetrated the right ventricle and the patient developed hemopericardium which resulted in cardiac tamponade physiology. DATA SOURCES None. STUDY SELECTION None. DATA EXTRACTION None. DATA SYNTHESIS: Recognizing the potential for unusual and serious complications of IV illicit drug use is an important part of providing effective and timely medical care in this vulnerable population. CONCLUSIONS: An embolic needle phenomenon can have significant sequela, including direct cardiac trauma leading to tamponade and subsequent cardiac collapse. Partnering with the patient to take a detailed history was critical in uncovering the underlying etiology of this patient's cardiogenic shock.