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pericardiocentesis
Emergency procedure to drain fluid or blood from the pericardial sac surrounding the heart.
Full Definition
Pericardiocentesis is a critical intervention performed in trauma patients with cardiac tamponade, where blood or fluid accumulates in the pericardial space, compressing the heart and impairing venous return. The procedure involves inserting a needle or catheter into the pericardial sac to evacuate the accumulated fluid, immediately relieving the life-threatening hemodynamic compromise. In trauma settings, this is often performed as a temporizing measure before definitive surgical repair of cardiac injuries.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as 'pericardiocentesis' rather than shortened forms in formal documentation
In Context
- "Emergency pericardiocentesis yielded 200 mL of blood, confirming cardiac tamponade." — Emergency department procedure note
- "The patient's hemodynamics improved immediately following pericardiocentesis." — Trauma resuscitation documentation
Also known as
pericardial drainage
pericardial tap
Don't confuse with
thoracentesis
paracentesis