pericardiotomy
Surgical incision into the pericardium to access the heart and great vessels.
Full Definition
Pericardiotomy is the surgical opening of the pericardium, the fibrous sac surrounding the heart, to gain access to cardiac structures during surgery. The procedure typically involves making incisions in the parietal pericardium parallel to the phrenic nerves to avoid nerve injury. Opening the pericardium allows visualization and manipulation of the heart, great vessels, and cardiac chambers. The pericardium may be left open at the conclusion of surgery to prevent cardiac tamponade from post-operative bleeding, or it may be loosely reapproximated. Careful technique is essential to avoid injury to surrounding structures including the phrenic nerves, which control diaphragmatic function.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from pericardiocentesis (needle drainage) and pericardiectomy (pericardial removal).
In Context
- "Following sternotomy, pericardiotomy was performed to expose the ascending aorta." — Operative report
- "The pericardium was left open following pericardiotomy to prevent tamponade." — Surgical technique description