Question

The pathophysiology of ________ is one in which the pericardial sac fills with blood to the point where the chambers of the heart no longer fill adequately, usually secondary to trauma.

A. cardiac tamponade
B. commotio cordis
C. pericardial effusion
D. hemopneumothorax

Answer 1

Cardiac tamponade is a critical condition where blood fills the pericardial sac, preventing the heart from filling properly, often due to trauma, requiring immediate drainage to prevent death.

Step-by-step explanation:

The pathophysiology described in the student's question refers to a condition where the pericardial sac becomes filled with blood, typically as a result of trauma, which prevents the heart chambers from adequately filling with blood during the relaxation phase between heartbeats. This condition is known as cardiac tamponade. It is a life-threatening emergency that disrupts the heart's normal function due to the increased pressure from the excess fluid. If fluid accumulates slowly, such as in hypothyroidism, the pericardial cavity may expand to accommodate the extra volume. However, a rapid accumulation of even as little as 100 mL of fluid can cause cardiac tamponade. Treatment involves the insertion of drainage tubes to remove the excess fluid from the pericardial cavity, addressing the underlying cause, and close monitoring to prevent recurrence.