A novel in-plane technique for ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis

Ultrasound-guided procedures are becoming very common in emergency medicine and critical care. Ultrasound guidance for pericardiocentesis has been shown to reduce errors as compared with the landmark-based technique. A simplified in-plane ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis allows the clinician an opportunity to visualize the needle and the guide wire during the procedure. In addition, post procedure ultrasound of the pericardial effusion, right ventricle and inferior vena cava allow the clinician confirmation of improvement of physiologic parameters that can lead to cardiovascular collapse from impending pericardial tamponade.