This post by Dr. Thomas Evans walks through the essentials of ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis — when to do it, how to do it, and what pitfalls to avoid. We highlight the subxiphoid, parasternal, and apical approaches with practical POCUS tips for real-time needle visualization, plus a review of complications and how to keep the procedure as safe as possible.
Read MoreThis case is by Dr. Ryan Starkman (now PGY2) and is a great example of a large circumferential pericardial effusion with sonographic tamponade physiology diagnosed with POCUS. This expedited interventional cardiology involvement before the patient decompensated, and 750cc of fluid was successfully drained in the cath lab.
Read MoreThis month’s case by Dr. Kalee Royster (PGY1) features a great example of a pericardial effusion with developing sonographic findings of tamponade along with discussion of how to evaluate this on POCUS.
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