Pericardiocentesis
Alternate Names : Percutaneous Pericardiocentesis, Pericardial Tap
Definition
Pericardiocentesis involves the use of a needle to withdraw fluid from the pericardial sac (membrane that surrounds the heart). The procedure may be used to remove fluid that is compressing the heart, or the fluid may be evaluated for diagnostic purposes.
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• Pictures & Images
• Definition
• Why is the Test Performed?
• How is the Test Performed?
• How to Prepare for the Test?
• How will the Test Feel?
• Normal Values
• What do Abnormal Results Mean?
• Risks
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Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Aneurysm
• Arrhythmias
• Cancer
• Cardiac Tamponade
• Heart Attack
• Heart Failure
• Pericarditis
Tests & Exams
• Blood Pressure
• ECG
• Echocardiogram
Other Topics
• Adolescent Test or Procedure Preparation
• Blood Pressure - Low
• Chest Pain
• Chronic
• Infant Test/Procedure Preparation
• Muscle Cramps
• Pain Medications
• Preschooler Test/Procedure Preparation
• School Age Test/Procedure Preparation
• Toddler Test/Procedure Preparation
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