[Treatment of open wounds of the heart and the pericardium: analysis of the relation between the time factor and diagnostic procedures].

Authors summarize their experiences connected with the treatment of open wounds of the heart and the pericardium during the past 35 years. Between 1962 and 1997 the authors operated on 31 cases of injuries affecting the heart. 10 wounds were situated in the isolated pericardium. They also deal with the history of treating injuries of the heart and pericardium. The value of diagnostical procedures was analysed and compared with Hungarian literature data that describes further cases. They emphasize the importance of immediate physical examination (including that of circulation, breathing, heart rate, consciousness, etc.) in cases of wounds close to the heart. Authors discuss the effects and the importance of the circumstances that directly affect the life expectancy of the patient during the treatment, such as time factor, the planning of cooperation within the operating team, practice in the field of thoracic surgery and management. They also put stress on correct thoracotomy, drainage and suction, so as to avoid postoperative pleural complications.