Case report: Percutaneous balloon pericardiotomy using Inoue balloon for patients with massive pericardial effusion

Two patients presenting with huge pericardial effusion were treated with pericardiotomy, using an Inoue balloon dilating catheter, to prevent recurrences and achieve symptoms relief. The procedure is a modification of an original technique reported by Palacios et al. gaining advantage of the Inoue balloon self positioning abilities and low profile. No early recurrence was observed. In both cases the effect was excellent and lead to quick ambulation sparing the patients the risk of more aggressive surgical procedure and general anesthesia. It is concluded that percutaneous balloon pericardiotomy supported by the Inoue balloon unique versatility is a simple and safe way to drain massive pericardial effusions.