Pericardial Drainage

Pericardiocentesis

Risks

Pericardial drainage can be a risky procedure, though few serious or life-threatening complications occur when it is performed by an experienced doctor. It is possible for the needle to puncture your heart or one of your blood vessels. In rare instances, the needle may also puncture your lung, your liver, or your stomach. These complications may require surgery to repair.

If the needle touches your heart, you may have an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), but the irregularity usually stops when the needle is removed. In rare instances, this type of arrhythmia can cause death. There is also a slight chance of spreading infection from the skin to the pericardial space when the needle is inserted.

After the test

After leaving the hospital, call911or other emergency services immediately if you have:

• Chest pain or symptoms of a heart attack.
• Moderate to severe trouble breathing.
• Signs of shock.

Call your doctor immediately if you:

• Vomit blood.
• Have a fever.
• Are short of breath.
• Feel dizzy.

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Author:	Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC	Last Updated: July 24, 2006
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine George Philippides, MD - Cardiology
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