Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 26, 2025

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement from Autologous Pericardium with a Self-Expandable Nitinol Stent in an Adult Sheep Model
Published on: June 8, 2022
Pericardiocentesis Complicated by Pneumopericardium
Tardu Özkartal1,2, Susanne A Schlossbauer1, Francesco Faletra1
1Fondazione Cardiocentro Ticino, Lugano, Switzerland.
Abstract:
This report presents the case of pneumopericardium with trapped air in the pericardial sac occurring after a pericardiocentesis, probably caused by air leakage secondary to a defect in the drainage system and/or accidental removal of the pericardial tube. This condition is very rare and should be considered in case of hemodynamic worsening despite complete evacuation of the pericardial effusion, since immediate recognition and treatment are crucial. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).
Related Concept Videos
Pericarditis III: Medical Management
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Pericarditis I: Introduction
Cardiac Catheterization II: Right Heart Catheterization
Pneumothorax-I
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.

