Localized Pericarditis Induced by an Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Membrane used for Constrictive Pericarditis - Two Case Reports and Short Review

Cardiac injury is associated with a high morality. The importance of protecting the heart during repeat sternotomy should be emphasized. An expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE) membrane is widely used for closure of the pericardium. We review the clinical effectiveness and adverse outcomes of the e-PTFE membrane. Although the e-PTFE membrane is effective and useful for repeat sternotomy, some complications, such as pericardial cyst formation, can occur in patients with constrictive pericarditis or repeat cardiac surgery. of follow-up. They reported that there were no infections or other complications related to the use of the e-PTFE membrane during the follow-up. At reoperation, they recognized that the membrane was clearly separate from the sternum and resembled a sheet of clear plastic overlying the heart. Additionally, no problematic adhesions were observed between the membrane and the heart or between the membrane and the chest wall. They concluded that use of the e-PTFE membrane is safe and effective in helping to prevent cardiac injury during repeat sternotomy.