Dataset Information

High frequency ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis performed in the sitting position: A novel apical approach.

ABSTRACT:

Background

So far, few approaches have been described to reduce inadvertent injury to structure of the heart and nearby organs in percutaneous pericardiocentesis.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that an in-plane high frequency ultrasound-guided apical approach, performed in the sitting position, would provide additional benefits in terms of feasibility and safety for draining malignant pericardial effusion (MPE).

Methods

The authors selected 53 consecutive patients with moderate or large symptomatic MPE who underwent high frequency ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis. After the procedure, all patients were followed for 90 days with the main purpose of detecting procedure success, procedure-related complications, and recurrent PE.