Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia (PPDH) is an opening between the pericardial sac and the pleuroperitoneal membrane. Pneumopericardium is an infrequent complication of PPDH. This condition is a serious circumstance in which free gas accumulates in the pericardial sac. The present report describes the occurrence of pneumopericardium and pericardial effusion after elective ovariectomy in a dog affected by PPDH. The presence of an umbilical and diaphragmatic hernia was highlighted during ovariectomy, and a pneumopericardium was seen during an X-ray exam. At the time of admission to the hospital, the dog was asymptomatic. The diagnosis was performed by X-ray and ultrasonographic exams. Computed tomography examination confirmed the diagnosis and directed for a surgical approach of the congenital defect. Surgery resulted in resolution of PPDH and of pneumopericardium.
Keywords: cardiac tamponade; congenital malformation; dog; peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia; peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic repair; pneumopericardium.