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Pericardiocentesis is a procedure that uses a needle to remove fluid from the pericardial sac, the tissue that surrounds the heart.
Alternative NamesPericardial tap; Percutaneous pericardiocentesis
How the test is performedThe 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 you have slowing of the heartbeat or a drop in blood pressure during the procedure.
The health care provider will clean an area just below the breastbone and apply a local numbing medication (anesthetic). The doctor will insert a needle and guide it into the pericardial sac. Echocardiography is used to help position the needle and monitor fluid drainage, although electrocardiographic (ECG) leads 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 catheter 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. In this procedure, the fluid is drained through a more invasive procedure that may require anesthesia.
How to prepare for the testYou may not be able to eat or drink for 6 hours before the test. You must sign a consent form.
How the test will feelYou may feel pressure as the needle enters. Some people have chest pain, which may require pain medication.
Why the test is performedThis test may be done to remove and examine fluid that is pressing on the heart. It is usually done to evaluate the cause of a chronic or recurrent pericardial effusion.
It may also be done to treat cardiac tamponade.
Normal ValuesThere is normally a small amount of clear, straw-colored fluid in the pericardial space.
What abnormal results meanAbnormal findings may indicate the cause of pericardial fluid accumulation, such as:
- Cancer
- Cardiac perforation
- Cardiac trauma
- Congestive heart failure
- Pericarditis
- Rupture of a ventricular aneurysm
- Bleeding
- Collapsed lung
- Heart attack
- Infection (pericarditis)
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Puncture of the heart muscle, coronary artery, lung, liver, or stomach
- Pneumopericardium (air in the pericardial sac)
LeWinter MM. Pericardial diseases. In: Libby P, Bonow RO, Mann DL, Zipes DP, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 8th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007:chap 70.
What else can I help you with?
Why is pericardiocentesis used to diagnose pericarditis?
Pericardiocentesis to test for viruses, bacteria, fungus, cancer, and tuberculosis.
What are the most common conditions to be treated by pericardiocentesis?
Cardiac tamponade and pericarditis are two primary complications that require intervention with pericardiocentesis.
What is the medical procedure pericardiocentesis?
Pericardiocentesis is the removal by needle of pericardial fluid from the sac surrounding the heart for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
What is the cpt code for Pericardiocentesis?
33010
When pericarditis is suspected why is pericardiocentesis performed?
Pericardiocentesis may be advisable in order to obtain a fluid sample for laboratory analysis to identify the underlying cause of the condition.
What dietary restrictions are there prior to pericardiocentesis?
No special dietary restrictions are required for pericardiocentesis. If the test is elective, then food and water restriction is recommended for six hours before the test.
What are the precautions associated with pericardiocentesis?
An ultrasound test should confirm the pericardial effusion and guide the pericardiocentesis needle for the procedure. Risks include accidental puncture to arteries or organs.
Cpt code for repeat pericardiocentesis?
The Cpt code for Repeat Pericardiocentesis is 33011, it's listed under subsequent. For radiological supervision and interpretation, use 76930. Hope this helps.
After a pericardiocentesis what are signs of complications that require immediate medical attention?
Continued bleeding or abnormal swelling of the puncture site, sudden dizziness, difficulty breathing, or chest pains in the days following a pericardiocentesis.
What is the procedure which a needle is surgically inserted into the pericardium to remove fluid?
Pericardiocentesis
Where is a pericardiocentesis conducted?
The procedure can be performed in an emergency room, ICU, or at the bedside
Which procedure is the drawing of fluid from the pericardial sac?
Ah, extracting fluid from the pericardial sac is known as a pericardiocentesis. It's a delicate procedure that helps relieve pressure around the heart and allows it to function more easily. Remember, it's important to trust your healthcare team and follow their guidance every step of the way.
