Pericardial Injury: Obstructive and Septic Shock Secondary to Penetrating Thoracic Trauma: A Case Report

This case involves a 23-year-old male patient who sustained a left hemothorax trauma caused by a puncture object. Initially, the injury was managed as a simple left pneumothorax, and the patient was discharged in improved condition. However, 48 hours after the initial intervention, he re-presented with clinical signs consistent with obstructive and septic shock. Diagnostic evaluation revealed purulent pericarditis. An urgent surgical procedure was performed, including thoracotomy and creation of a pericardial window, to drain the purulent fluid accumulated in the pericardium. The patient was subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit and later transferred to the general hospital ward. Following a favorable clinical course and resolution of infection and shock signs, he was discharged in stable condition and good overall health.