Acute temponade due to postinfarction myocardial rupture successfully managed with urgent pericardiotomy

Postinfarction myocardial rupture is rare and fatal. A 60-year-old female developed hemodynamic collapse after 2-h acute precordial pains. Acute tamponade and cardiogenic shock were confirmed. The patient underwent urgent pericardiotomy under the aid of intraaortic balloon pump and inotropic infusions. The differential diagnosis of acute chest pain is important. Early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention of acute temponade are crucial for rescuing the patient.