Pericardiocentesis

Pericardiocentesis treatment abroad.

Pericardiocentesis, also called a pericardial tap, is an invasive procedure that involves using a needle and catheter to remove fluid (called a pericardial effusion) from the sac around the heart (the pericardium). The fluid may then be sent to a laboratory for tests to look for signs of infection or cancer. Occasionally, pericardiocentesis is performed on an emergency basis to treat a condition called cardiac tamponade.

This condition is a life-threatening, rapid buildup of fluid around the heart that puts pressure on the heart muscle, weakening its pumping ability and drastically lowering blood pressure.  

Why it is performed? 

• Determine cause of fluid around the heart.
• Relieve symptoms, such as shortness of breath caused by having fluid around the heart.
• Diagnose infection or cancer that may be causing fluid around the heart.