cardiac tamponade
Pronunciation: tam-po-NAHD
Life-threatening compression of the heart due to fluid accumulation in the pericardial space, impeding cardiac filling.
Full Definition
Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency characterized by the accumulation of fluid, blood, or air in the pericardial space, leading to compression of the heart and impaired venous return. The condition can develop acutely following trauma, cardiac procedures, or aortic dissection, or subacutely due to malignancy, infection, or inflammatory conditions. The classic presentation includes Beck's triad: elevated jugular venous pressure, hypotension, and muffled heart sounds. Pulsus paradoxus (>20 mmHg) is a key finding. The rigid pericardium prevents adequate ventricular filling, leading to equalization of diastolic pressures across all cardiac chambers. Emergency pericardiocentesis or surgical drainage is required to restore hemodynamic stability.
Usage
Usage note: Medical emergency requiring immediate intervention; distinguish from pericardial effusion without hemodynamic compromise.
In Context
- "The patient developed cardiac tamponade following coronary artery bypass surgery requiring emergency reoperation." — Operative report
- "Beck's triad and pulsus paradoxus strongly suggested cardiac tamponade in the trauma patient." — Emergency medicine documentation