[Thoracoscopic approach of pericardial effusion]

We report the technique of pericardial approach through the thoracoscope. This approach has several advantages. Extensive pericardial fenestration can be performed as well as pericardoscopy whenever indicated and additional biopsies such as mediastinal or lung parenchyma biopsies. Among the 12 patients operated on, the procedure was possible in all but one case. When there is no contraindication to selective tracheal intubation or lateral positioning, the thoracoscopic approach is the method of choice. In other cases, the subxiphoid approach remains indicated.