July 21, 2017,
Pericardiocentesis is a procedure that uses a needle to remove fluid from the pericardial sac, the tissue that surrounds the heart.
Back to TopAlternative Names
Pericardial tap; Percutaneous pericardiocentesis
Back to TopHow the Test Is Performed
The procedure is usually done in an intensive care unit's procedure room or even at the bedside.
A health care provider will put an IV into your arm in case fluids or medicines need to be given through a vein. For example, medication may be given if your heart beat slows or your blood pressure drops during the procedure.
The health care provider will clean an area just below the breastbone and apply numbing medication (anesthetic). The doctor will insert a needle and guide it into tissue that surrounds the heart. Echocardiography is used to help the doctor see the needle and any fluid drainage. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may also be used to help with positioning.
Once the needle has reached the correct area, it is removed and replaced with a tube called a catheter. Fluid drains through this tube into containers. Usually, the pericardial catheter is left in place so draining may continue for several hours.
Surgical pericardiocentesis may be necessary in difficult cases. This is a more invasive procedure, which may require general anesthesia.
Back to TopHow to Prepare for the Test
You may not be able to eat or drink for 6 hours before the test. You must sign a consent form.
Back to TopNormal Results
There is normally a small amount of clear, straw-colored fluid in the pericardial space.
Back to TopReferences
LeWinter MM, Tischler MD. Pericardial diseases. In: Bonow RO, Mann DL, Zipes DP, Libby P, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine . 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap75.
Little WC, Oh JK. Pericardial diseases. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine . 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 77.
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