Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
pericardial effusion
Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space, potentially requiring surgical drainage or window creation.
Full Definition
Pericardial effusion refers to the pathological collection of fluid between the visceral and parietal layers of the pericardium. In cardiovascular surgery, this condition may develop as a postoperative complication, result from inflammation, infection, or malignancy. Large effusions can lead to cardiac tamponade, requiring emergency pericardiocentesis or surgical pericardial window creation. Surgical management involves careful assessment of hemodynamic compromise and appropriate drainage procedures.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully from cardiac tamponade, which represents the hemodynamic consequence of effusion.
In Context
- "Echocardiography revealed a large pericardial effusion with early signs of tamponade physiology." — Diagnostic imaging report
- "The patient required pericardial window creation for recurrent pericardial effusion following cardiac surgery." — Operative note
Also known as
pericardial fluid collection
Contrasted with
normal pericardial space
Don't confuse with
pleural effusion
cardiac tamponade