cardiac tamponade
Life-threatening condition where fluid accumulation in the pericardial space compresses the heart, preventing normal filling.
Full Definition
Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency characterized by the accumulation of fluid, blood, or other material in the pericardial space, which creates pressure around the heart and prevents the ventricles from filling properly. This condition can develop acutely following trauma or cardiac procedures, or chronically in cases of malignancy or inflammatory conditions. The classic presentation includes Beck's triad: elevated venous pressure, hypotension, and muffled heart sounds. Immediate pericardiocentesis or surgical drainage is typically required to restore normal cardiac function.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify 'cardiac' to distinguish from other types of tamponade in medical writing.
In Context
- "The patient's hemodynamic deterioration suggested cardiac tamponade requiring emergent pericardiocentesis." — Emergency department report
- "Echocardiography revealed findings consistent with cardiac tamponade including ventricular interdependence and respiratory variation in mitral inflow velocities." — Cardiology consultation note