[Isolated rupture of the pericardium after closed trauma of the thorax (author's transl)].

Rupture of the pericardium after closed trauma of the thorax is rare. There are two main clinical presentations: one of severe thoracic trauma with hemothorax requiring an operation which permits the diagnosis, the other of pain and pericardial signs on auscultation which should attract attention. The treatment requires closure of the pericardial tear as a routine owing to the risk of fatal complications due to dislocation of the heart.