Pericardiocentesis

Pericardiocentesis (pronunciation: per-i-kar-dee-o-sen-tee-sis) is a medical procedure that involves the use of a needle to remove fluid from the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart.

Etymology

The term "Pericardiocentesis" is derived from the Greek words "peri" (around), "kardia" (heart), and "kentesis" (prick).

Procedure

During a Pericardiocentesis, a long, thin needle is inserted through the chest wall into the pericardium to drain excess fluid that may be putting pressure on the heart. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and guided by echocardiography or computed tomography (CT) to ensure accurate placement of the needle.

Indications

Pericardiocentesis is often performed to treat pericardial effusion, a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial cavity. It can also be used to diagnose the cause of the effusion by analyzing the fluid removed.

Risks and Complications

Like any invasive procedure, Pericardiocentesis carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and puncture of the heart or lung. However, with the use of imaging guidance, these risks are minimized.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Pericardiocentesis
Wikipedia's article - Pericardiocentesis

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Pericardiocentesis