2/7/2024 0 Comments Draining fluid from heart![]() Furthermore, it is thought that there are fewer coronary vessels on the right side of the heart as it sits in the thoracic cavity. Many people prefer performing pericardiocentesis from the right side since there is a "cardiac notch" between the right cranial and caudal lung lobes where the risk of lung puncture is diminished. Although we describe a left-sided approach here and in the photographs, a right-sided approach can be performed using the same landmarks. Some practitioners, nonetheless, prefer approaching the pericardial sac from the right. The right ventricular wall is much thinner than the left ventricular wall, so it is easier to penetrate it unknowingly as you advance the needle and catheter. The high left ventricular pressure usually results in a pulsatile, high-velocity flashback into the catheter, making it obvious if you have penetrated the left ventricle.ģ. Both right ventricular blood and pleural effusion are dark red.Ģ. The oxygenated blood in the left ventricle is bright red. It is easier to recognize iatrogenic puncture of the left ventricle than of the right ventricle. We prefer the left-sided approach for the following reasons:ġ. The decision is based on your experience or if fluid accumulation is asymmetric (which rarely occurs). Pericardiocentesis can be performed using a right or left thorax approach because when marked pericardial effusion is present, pericardial distention pushes the lungs dorsally, resulting in a "cardiac notch" on the right and left side. One assistant restrains the patient, and another helps you perform the procedure. If electrocardiography is not available, have an assistant monitor the cardiac rhythm by palpating the patient's pulse throughout the procedure. As mentioned earlier, if available, attach an electrocardiograph with an oscilloscope to the patient. It is easiest to perform with the patient in lateral recumbency to minimize motion. You can perform this procedure from the right or left side of the thorax. Here we describe the technique for pericardiocentesis in dogs, but the same protocol is followed in cats by using smaller catheters. Assistants (preferably two nonsterile).EDTA and red-top tubes for cytology samples (and for bacterial culture and antimicrobial sensitivity testing, if indicated).Plain (red-top) or serum separator tube.For small dogs and cats: 16- to 18-ga, 2½-in over-the-needle catheters For large dogs: 14-ga, 5-in angiocatheters are optimal but 16-ga, 2½-in over-the-needle catheters will suffice The following equipment and staffing are needed to perform a pericardiocentesis: We also recommend placing an intravenous catheter to administer fluids and emergency drugs if needed. If one is not available, it is important that someone is available to monitor cardiac rhythm throughout the procedure by palpating pulses. That being said, adhering to the following protocol will maximize the likelihood of success.Īn electrocardiograph with an oscilloscope is recommended but not required. Although the technique is similar to that of thoracocentesis, the anatomical margins are narrower, and certain complications are more likely. Even in cases in which referral to a cardiologist or other specialist is your ultimate goal, you may need to perform a pericardiocentesis to stabilize a patient first. With supplies and equipment found in most veterinary hospitals, performing a pericardiocentesis is actually quite simple. When cardiac tamponade is diagnosed, pericardiocentesis should be performed as soon as possible. Removing pericardial effusion is important from both a diagnostic and a therapeutic standpoint. ![]() Pericardial effusion is a frequent sequela to the common pericardial diseases of small animals.
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