Gastropericardial Fistula and Candida kruzei Pericarditis Following Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication (Gastropericardial Fistula)

Abstract

We report a case of gastropericardial fistula and Candida kruzei pericarditis one year after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. Chest X-ray and CT revealed pneumopericardium. Barium swallow, UGI, endoscopy, and bronchoscopy were negative. Pericardial exploration was performed through a sternotomy. Intraoperative fistulogram revealed a tract into the stomach. A midline abdominal incision allowed identification of the slipped Nissen, resection of the fistula tract, and subsequent re-do fundoplication. The patient was treated with amphotericin and remains symptom-free 10 months after her operation. We recommend both sternotomy and midline abdominal incisions to explore and access the pericardium, stomach, esophagus, and diaphragm.

Key words

Fistula - infection - pericardium - complications of surgery

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