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Pericardiocentesis Guided by Contrast Echocardiography
Norbert Watzinger1, Helmut Brussee, Friedrich M. Fruhwald
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, A-8036 Graz, Austria.
Echocardiography (Mount Kisco, N.Y.)
|February 15, 2001
Summary
Echovist (SH U 454) provides excellent contrast during pericardiocentesis, improving needle guidance in hemorrhagic or loculated effusions. This ultrasound contrast agent enhances visualization when conventional methods yield poor results.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Interventional Procedures
Background:
- Pericardiocentesis carries risks, especially with hemorrhagic fluid.
- Accurate needle placement is crucial for safe fluid withdrawal.
- Conventional contrast echocardiography can produce weak, inhomogeneous echoes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of Echovist (SH U 454) for contrast enhancement in pericardiocentesis.
- To assess Echovist's utility in guiding needle placement during hemorrhagic or loculated effusions.
Main Methods:
- Pericardiocentesis performed via subxiphoid approach in supine patients.
- 1-2 ml of Echovist injected upon aspiration of hemorrhagic fluid.
- Ultrasound contrast medium SH U 454 (Echovist) used for visualization.
Main Results:
- Echovist provided excellent, clear visualization of the pericardial space.
- No adverse effects were observed following Echovist injection.
- Improved delineation of the fluid space was achieved.
Conclusions:
- Contrast echocardiography with Echovist is a useful tool for pericardiocentesis.
- Echovist enhances visualization of hemorrhagic and loculated effusions.
- Consider Echovist when conventional contrast techniques are inadequate.