pericardial window
Pronunciation: pair-ih-KAR-dee-al WIN-doh
A surgical procedure creating an opening in the pericardium to drain fluid and prevent recurrent pericardial effusion in cancer patients.
Full Definition
A pericardial window is a therapeutic procedure commonly performed in thoracic oncology patients who develop malignant pericardial effusion. The procedure involves creating a window in the pericardium to allow continuous drainage of fluid into the pleural space, preventing life-threatening cardiac tamponade. This can be performed via video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), subxiphoid approach, or open surgical technique depending on patient factors and institutional expertise. The procedure is indicated when pericardiocentesis is inadequate for long-term management or when recurrent effusions compromise cardiac function. Success rates are high, with low morbidity and excellent palliation of symptoms.
Usage
Usage note: Specify surgical approach when documenting, as different techniques have varying indications.
In Context
- "VATS pericardial window was performed for recurrent malignant pericardial effusion causing hemodynamic compromise." — Surgical consultation note
- "The subxiphoid pericardial window successfully prevented recurrence of the large pericardial effusion." — Post-operative summary