pericardiotomy
Pronunciation: per-ih-kar-dee-OT-oh-me
Surgical incision of the pericardium to access the heart or relieve pericardial constriction during cardiac procedures.
Full Definition
Pericardiotomy is the surgical incision or opening of the pericardium, the fibrous sac surrounding the heart, to gain access to cardiac structures during surgery or to relieve pericardial constriction. This procedure is a standard initial step in most cardiac operations following sternotomy, allowing visualization and manipulation of the heart and great vessels. The pericardial incision is typically made parallel to the phrenic nerve to avoid injury, and may extend from the ascending aorta to the diaphragm depending on the surgical requirements. In some cases, pericardiotomy is performed as a therapeutic intervention to treat constrictive pericarditis or recurrent pericardial effusions. Medical editors should distinguish this from pericardiectomy, which involves removal of pericardial tissue.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from pericardiectomy (removal) and pericardiocentesis (needle drainage).
In Context
- "Following median sternotomy, pericardiotomy was performed to expose the ascending aorta and right atrium." — operative report
- "The surgeon created a generous pericardiotomy to facilitate placement of the venous cannulae." — procedural note