Two Cases of Pericardial and Pleural Effusions After the Nuss Procedure With Significant Response to Corticosteroid Treatment

Abstract

Pericardial and pleural effusions after the Nuss procedure are relatively rare complications. In this report, we describe two cases of pericardial effusion after the Nuss procedure. Case 1 was a 15-year-old boy who presented with fever and fatigue four months after the Nuss procedure. Blood tests showed a high inflammatory response, and an enhanced chest computed tomography scan showed pericardial effusion. There were no abnormal findings around the wound. The pericardial effusion disappeared after corticosteroid administration. Case 2 was a 16-year-old girl who presented with fever and weight loss two weeks after the Nuss procedure. Blood tests showed a high inflammatory response, and echocardiography showed pericardial effusion. There were no abnormal findings around the wound. Although the pericardial effusion disappeared after steroid administration and she recovered and was discharged, she returned to the hospital because of continuous fever. Chest CT showed a left pleural effusion without a recurrence of pericardial effusion. Steroid readministration was effective and her condition improved. Corticosteroid was effective in the treatment of pericardial and pleural effusions after the Nuss procedure when the Nuss bar infections were denied.