REPAIR OF ATRIAL SEPTAL-DEFECT DUE TO PENETRATING TRAUMA

We report a case of stab wound to the heart resulting in an atrial sep tal defect and perforation of the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve , which we repaired successfully 7 years after the injury. To our know ledge, repair of an atrial septal defect due to penetrating trauma has never before been reported. Investigation of possible valvular heart disease in a patient with a history of chest trauma should be aimed at identifying both intracardiac shunts and valvular abnormalities, so t hat a complete repair can be performed.