Cardiac Tamponade Relief by Fluid Aspiration

Cardiac tamponade happens when fluid builds up in the pericardium, the thin sac around the heart, and compresses the heart chambers. The pericardium can stretch a little when fluid collects slowly. But a rapid buildup can overwhelm that ability and raise pressure inside the sac.

As pressure rises...

Pericardiocentesis - the aspiration of fluid from the space between the heart and pericardium - is a potentially lifesaving procedure performed to relieve cardiac tamponade.

Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid collects rapidly in the pericardial space, causing a dramatic increase in pressure inside this space. If untreated, the fluid accum...