Worthing doctors praised for life-saving Boxing Day procedure

Consultant cardiologists who normally treat adults have been praised for their quick-thinking and teamwork after saving the life of a six-year-old.

On Boxing Day, the patient was brought to Working Hospital in West Sussex needing urgent treatment for a suspected cardiac tamponade – a life-threatening condition where fluid builds up around the heart.

Although not on call that evening, consultant cardiologist Dr Marian Bencat and members of the adult cardiology team responded immediately.

Kate Windsor, paediatric emergency department registrar, said: “It was without a doubt the willingness of our adult cardiology colleagues to step in and manage a child that made all the difference.”

Dr Reza Zadeh, clinical lead for cardiology and one of the doctors who performed the procedure, said there were several challenging factors, including the fact it had to be carried out in the emergency department out of hours.

“We needed colleagues with the right expertise straight away,” he explained.

The medical staff performed an urgent ultrasound scan-guided pericardiocentesis – a procedure which removes extra fluid from a protective pouch that surrounds the heart.

University Hospital Sussex NHS Foundation Trust says the procedure is usually carried out in a cardiology cath lab, a cross between a theatre and a x-ray room, to stabilise the patient.

Dr Reza said: “This was a powerful example of colleagues coming together across specialties to provide excellent care.

“I’m really proud we were able to give this child the best chance of recovery.”