Pericardiocentesis: ultrasound guidance is essential.

BACKGROUND

Pericardial effusion is a common entity which may have important implications in patient's prognosis. In several cases, pericardiocentesis is indicated for diagnostic and/or therapeutic purposes.

CASE PRESENTATION: A blind pericardiocentesis failed in a 95-year-old woman admitted to the emergency department with a large pericardial effusion incidentally diagnosed in the ambulatory setting. Ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis aided in easily accessing to the pericardial cavity, without periprocedural complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis is simple, safe and effective, and should replace the blind technique. This procedure should be part of the armamentarium of ultrasound-guided practices of emergency or critical care physicians.