The Heart Under Pressure: Traumatic Gerbode Defect and Aortic Dissection After a Tire Explosion: A Case Report and Literature Review

Biçer B. B., AYKAN H. H., Tuzdelen E., SABUNCU T., GÜVENER M.

Pediatric Cardiology, vol.47, no.5, pp.2269-2275, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 47 Issue: 5
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s00246-025-03998-z
  • Journal Name: Pediatric Cardiology
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Page Numbers: pp.2269-2275
  • Keywords: Aortic dissection, Blunt cardiac trauma, Tire explosion, Traumatic Gerbode defect
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

We report an unusual case of a 13-year-old boy who sustained multiple traumatic cardiac injuries—including ventricular septal and Gerbode defects, aortic dissection, and severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR)—following a high-pressure truck tire explosion. The patient underwent successful endovascular and surgical repair, with full recovery observed at the 1-year follow-up. This case highlights the importance of thorough evaluation and individualized management in pediatric patients with complex cardiac trauma resulting from uncommon high-energy mechanisms.