title: Computed tomography-guided pericardiocentesis: utility in the management of malignant pericardial effusion.
abstract: Transthoracic echocardiography is an established means of diagnosing a pericardial effusion and has become the reference guidance modality for drainage of symptomatic collections. However, echocardiographic drainage is not feasible in all patients for a variety of technical and patient-related factors. Computed tomography (CT)-directed pericardiocentesis using a standard Seldinger technique is an alternative means of draining pericardial effusions and overcomes many of the limitations associated with echocardiography. We present a case in which a CT-guided approach was used to successfully drain a malignant pericardial effusion in the emergent setting. Clinicians should be aware of the potential role of CT in this setting.
authors.affiliation: Academy of Radiology, Leeds General Infirmary Hospital, Yorkshire, United Kingdom. edwardhoey1@gmail.com
authors.forename: Edward T D
authors.initials: ET
authors.lastname: Hoey
authors.forename: Kshitij
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Mankad
mesh_terms: D000792:Angiography; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004452:Echocardiography; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D020519:Pericardiocentesis / Q000379:methods*; D016066:Pleural Effusion, Malignant / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D015641:Radiography, Interventional; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed