The postpericardiotomy syndrome (PPS) is an inflammation of the pericardium or pleura following a variety of pericardial injuries. The potential pathogenic factors of the PPS are autoimmune, special virus and latent virus infection. PPS is self-limited, but may lead to prolonged hospital stay, readmissions, and need for invasive interventions. The therapy for PSS is mainly empiric anti-inflammatory therapy. The perioperative use of colchicine could reduce the incidence of PPS but is not effective for postoperative atrial fibrillation or postoperative pericardial/pleural effusion. This article mainly analyzes the incidence, risk factors, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment standards, preventive measures and prognosis of PPS.