Publications

Abstract : Cardiac masses may be of primary or secondary origin. The commonest cardiac masses are pseudo-masses. Primary cardiac tumors are relatively rare tumors but are diagnosed more often now with the availability of advanced imaging technology. The location of the tumor and its morphological characteristics determine its clinical presentation and the prognosis of the patient. Cardiac tumors have several systemic effects apart from their intracardiac effects. Mechanical obstruction to cardiac output and the potential effects of embolization of tissue and associated thrombi mandate early surgery to excise the tumor. Good preoperative assessment; prevention of hypovolemia; preparedness for emergency cardiopulmonary bypass; smooth induction of general anesthesia without a decrease in systemic vascular resistance; and intensive hemodynamic monitoring are essential to managing these patients. Despite surgery and chemo-/radiotherapy, malignant tumors have a poor prognosis.