Abstract
Introduction: Pericardial effusion (PE) is a common finding in chronic cardiac failure or other benign and malignant diseases, but its spectrum ranges from mild asymptomatic effusions to cardiac tamponade. Although Video-Thoracoscopic Pericardial Window (VTPW) is a surgical option for PE, it requires thoracoscopic surgical manners. However, there is few data regarding to its safeness and effect.
Objectives: To investigate whether the VTPW might improve the outcome in PE.
Methods: Retrospectively, the surgical indication, pre- and postoperative factors, recurrence and survival rate after VTPW were assessed. From June to October 2012, 6 subjects, who were diagnosed by echocardiography before the VTPW, were enrolled in this study.
Results: The operation time was 52.8 ± 17min. (mean ± SD), and there was no intra- or postoperative complication related with surgical procedure. Ejection Fraction rate (EF ratio) and cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) were improved (Fig. 1).
Symptoms caused by PE (e.g. leg edema, dyspnea on effort) were improved, and diuretics were discontinued in some patients. No recurrence of PE has been observed. There was one case of in-hospital death due to malignant disease progression.
Conclusions: VTPW might is safe and effective approach in the surgical management of PE.
- © 2013 ERS