# Cardiac Tamponade During Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair in an Infant: A Case Report and Literature Review

## TL;DR

A rare case of cardiac tamponade occurred during hernia repair in an infant, highlighting the importance of quick diagnosis and treatment.

## Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of rare intraoperative complications in congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair.

## Key findings

- Cardiac tamponade was caused by fluid extravasation during surgery.
- Pericardiocentesis was critical in saving the infant's life.
- Unexplained hemodynamic instability should prompt suspicion of cardiac tamponade.

## Abstract

Intraoperative cardiac tamponade is an exceptionally rare but life‐threatening complication during congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair in infants. In this case, pericardial effusion from inadvertent intravenous fluid extravasation led to cardiovascular collapse. Prompt recognition and pericardiocentesis were lifesaving, emphasizing vigilance when unexplained hemodynamic instability occurs during central or jugular venous access.

Schematic depiction of congenital diaphragmatic hernia with abdominal organs displaced into the chest, accompanied by visual elements illustrating the key complications observed in this case: cardiac tamponade and pleural effusion. Created in BioRender. Davoodi Karsalari, P. (2025) https://BioRender.com/n8wws0e.