Delayed cardiac tamponade caused by a staple line after wedge resection of the lung

An 80-year-old woman was diagnosed with an adenocarcinoma of the left lower lobe, clinical stage IA3. Taking the patient’s age and medical history into consideration, a wedge resection was performed. After the resumption of rivaroxaban on postoperative Day 3, the patient suddenly developed cardiac tamponade on postoperative Day 5. A drainage tube was placed by pericardiocentesis, and the haemodynamics recovered immediately. No recurrence of cardiac tamponade was observed. The confluence of staple lines is a risk factor for tissue damage. Some covering is recommended, especially when the stapling line contacts the pericardium on the left side.