Thoracoscopic pericardial fenestration, a first experience of a new approach.

Surgical treatment of pericardial effusions are, in general, treated by methods using a subxiphoid or a transthoracic route. The former is criticized for the high recurrence rate, the latter for the high incidence of respiratory complications. To minimize these problems and in view of the growing enthusiasm for using minimal invasive techniques, we treated one patient with pericardial effusion by using video-assisted thoracoscopy for the creation of a pericardial window. We achieved an adequate drainage, and the postoperative pain and pulmonary dysfunction were minimal. The operative technique and pitfalls are discussed in this report. Thoracoscopic pericardial fenestration might facilitate a much less aggressive transthoracic approach to the pericardium which is of great importance, as many of these patients are already in a poor clinical condition.