[Subxiphoid pericardial window drainage in the management of large pericardial effusions].

OBJECTIVE

To choose a safe, effective, minimum invasive procedure for treatment of patients with a large pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 30 cases with large pericardial effusion or cardiac tamponade diagnosed by echocardiography during four years (1993-1997). The subxiphoid pericardial window drainage and pericardial tissue biopsy was performed.

RESULTS

The symptoms were improved immediately following the drainage. The drainage volume during operation was 200-2,000 ml, and postoperation was 0-2,000 ml. The drainage tube was kept in position for average of 5.6 days. With the echocardiography follow up, the pericardial effusion disappeared or remained only minimum fluid in 96.7% of the patients. The complications happened in 6 cases. The 30-days mortality was 6.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The subxiphoid pericardial window drainage procedure is the first choice for a safe, effective, minimal invasive and easy to do procedure for the patients with a large pericardial effusions or cardiac tamponade.