Pancreatitis Complicated by Pericardial Effusion and Cardiac Tamponade

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Abstract
While ascites and pleural effusions are recognized complications of benign pancreatic disease, pericardial effusion is extremely rare. A case of subacute pancreatitis was accompanied by the sudden development of cardiac tamponade. Open-chest cardiac resuscitation was successful, although the postarrest course was complicated by prolonged coma, respiratory tract insufficiency, and ileus. With respiratory tract support, steroids, and intravenous hypertonic total parenteral alimentation, the patient eventually made a satisfactory recovery.