Computed tomography-guided pericardiocentesis – A single-center experience

Computed tomography-guided pericardiocentesis: a systematic review concerning contemporary evidence and future perspectives

“…1,2,4 It is the imaging modality of choice for the guidance of pericardiocentesis, being portable, quick to perform and allowing continuous real-time imaging. 2,5,6 In comparison with a blind technique, the use of echocardiography to guide a pericardiocentesis represents an important step in optimizing this invasive procedure. 5 This has been highlighted in contemporary guidelines.…”

“…2,7,8 Given these possible shortcomings in terms of image acquisition as well as the necessity for a precise needle orientation (especially in nontypical approaches), computed tomography (CT)-guided pericardiocentesis has gained interest. 6,9,10 This technique, some of the first descriptions of which concerning PE diagnosis and possible pericardiocentesis guidance were made over 30 years ago, 11,12 has been thoroughly detailed elsewhere. 6,7,13 It potentially allows overcoming many of the hindrances concerning echocardiography, and can also be relevant for the exclusion of other thoracic pathologies.…”

“…6,9,10 This technique, some of the first descriptions of which concerning PE diagnosis and possible pericardiocentesis guidance were made over 30 years ago, 11,12 has been thoroughly detailed elsewhere. 6,7,13 It potentially allows overcoming many of the hindrances concerning echocardiography, and can also be relevant for the exclusion of other thoracic pathologies. 6,14,15 As such, its use could be of relevance in several clinical situations.…”

“…6,7,13 It potentially allows overcoming many of the hindrances concerning echocardiography, and can also be relevant for the exclusion of other thoracic pathologies. 6,14,15 As such, its use could be of relevance in several clinical situations. 6,14,15 However, despite previously published series and technical descriptions, the role of this technique in the contemporary approach to a PE remains to be fully specified.…”

“…6,14,15 As such, its use could be of relevance in several clinical situations. 6,14,15 However, despite previously published series and technical descriptions, the role of this technique in the contemporary approach to a PE remains to be fully specified. 2,6,9,16 No major complications described (no data presented concerning possible minor complications)…”