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Emergency Pericardiocentesis

Drainage of fluid from the pericardium is life-saving in cardiac tamponade.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Emergency Pericardiocentesis?

Pericardiocentesis is the drainage of fluid from within the pericardium with a needle. It is life-saving for hemodynamic stabilization in cardiac tamponade.

It is performed under echocardiographic guidance, preferably via the subxiphoid approach. In hemodynamically unstable patients, it can also be performed in the field.

Malignancy, uremia, viral pericarditis, and traumatic hemopericardium are the main indications. It requires appropriate monitoring and an experienced team.

Symptoms

Beck's triad: hypotension, distant heart sounds, jugular venous distension
Shortness of breath and orthopnea
Chest pain and pressure sensation
Tachycardia and pulsus paradoxus
Peripheral edema
Weakness and dizziness

Risk Factors

Malignancy (lung, breast, lymphoma)
Uremia and chronic kidney disease
Viral, bacterial, and tuberculous pericarditis
Bleeding after cardiac surgery
Penetrating chest trauma
Anticoagulant use

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call 112 immediately for sudden shortness of breath with hypotension
  • Sudden deterioration in a patient with a history of malignancy should prompt suspicion of tamponade
  • Sudden deterioration after cardiac surgery requires emergency evaluation
  • Echocardiography is decisive in diagnosis

Treatment Methods

01
Monitoring and oxygen support
02
Echocardiographic localization of fluid
03
Needle access via the subxiphoid approach
04
Aspiration of the fluid
05
Placement of a pericardial drainage catheter
06
Investigation of the underlying cause

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Acil Servis Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.