[Penetrating cardiac injuries].

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate our clinical findings and results of cardiac injuries.

Methods: We reviewed the records of patients who were admitted to our clinic between 1996 and 2005 and operated due to penetrating cardiac injury.

Results: Eighteen patients (17 male, one female; mean age 25.9; range 17-45 years) (all penetrating stab wounds) with cardiac injuries were operated. The clinical aspects were: agonal status in 5 patients (27.8%), profound shock in 7 patients (38.9%). The remaining 6 patients (33.3%) were in mild shock (hypotension 60-90 mmHg) and 3 of them (16.7%) had a diagnosis of cardiac tamponade preoperatively. Emergency room thoracotomy was made in 2 patients (11.1%). Mortality rate was %80 in agonal patients whereas overall mortality was 44.5%.

Conclusion: Cardiac injuries have high mortality. The mortality rate of the patients, who can arrive to the hospital alive, is closely related to the vital signs and general condition. The mortality can be reduced by quick evaluation and prompt surgical intervention.