Fatal pneumopericardium caused by SF6 gas infusion into the pleural space after pneumonectomy and pericardial resection.

A 63-year-old man with lung carcinoma underwent a right pneumonectomy and combined resection of the pericardium. Postoperatively, SF6 gas was introduced into the empty pleural space for the protection of excessive shift of heart and mediastinum, but a fatal pneumopericardium occurred. A rare but possible complication of cardiac tamponade after inert gas infusion in patients undergoing combined resection of pericardium is reported.