[Gastropericardial fistula. Review of the literature apropos of an original case]

Abstract

The authors present a case of pneumopericarditis consecutive to a perforating gastric ulcer complicating a left, post-traumatic diaphragmatic hernia, evolving favorably after radical surgery. 52 cases of gastro-pericardial fistulas were reported in the literature, 42 of which related to benign pathology. The overall mortality rate for this disease was 85%, although the course was favorable in one patient out of two, whenever radical surgery had been resorted to. In order to ensure these patients the best chances for survival, treatment should combine pericardial drainage and case-adapted gastro-intestinal surgery in an intensive care setting.