The transdiaphragmatic approach to the heart.
A modification of the transdiaphragmatic approach to the heart is described. The technique has been used successfully in both adults and children, the youngest child being 8 years of age. The approach has advantages over others in gaining access to the heart for purposes of internal cardiac massage and drainage of suppurative pericarditis and is also a suitable manaeuvre in the surgical treatment of acute tamponade. Clinical experience in the use of this approach is summarized. The transdiaphragmatic approach is recommended as a standard technique for internal cardiac massage.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D002305:Cardiac Tamponade / Q000601:surgery; D002648:Child; D003331:Coronary Vessels / Q000293:injuries; D003964:Diaphragm; D004322:Drainage; D005260:Female; D006336:Heart Massage; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010493:Pericarditis / Q000628:therapy; D014682:Vena Cava, Inferior / Q000293:injuries