A spear to the heart—the accidental discovery of a giant cement embolism in the right heart: a case report

The incidence of recognized cardiopulmonary cement embolism in the context of percutaneous vertebroplasty varies between 0% and 23%. In most cases, only small fragments embolize in the pulmonary arteries or the right heart cavities. The latter can cause potential harm by right ventricular perforation.

A 57-year-old patient was admitted to our department of cardiology due to exertional dyspnoea and chest pain. In the course of further diagnostic tests, a huge cement embolus was accidentally discovered in the right ventricle. The unusual size and length and the threat of ventricular perforation make this case so unique.

Large cement embolisms in kyphoplasty settings are possible and associated with the risk of fulminant complications.