Pericardial-peritoneal window for chronic exudative pericarditis using a subxiphoidal approach: report of three cases

From August 1986 to February 2000, three patients were given a pericardial-peritoneal window using a subxiphoidal approach, for pericardial effusion associated with chronic exudative pericarditis. Complete drainage without recurrence was achieved in two patients with a large pericardial-peritoneal window (4 cm diameter) and effusion recurred in another with a small pericardial-peritoneal window (3cm diameter). No complications were encountered. The pericardial-peritoneal window, approached subxiphoidally, is a simple, safe, and effective procedure and applicable in most patients with non-infectious benign pericardial effusion. We herein describe our techniques, clinical characteristics, and the results for three patients undergoing this treatment.