Function of the normal pericardium

Until recently, instrumenting the pericardium was possible only when a pericardial effusion is present or by surgical exposure of the pericardium. Techniques are now being developed to instrument the normal pericardium. This development will allow clinicians and investigators to study pericardial fluid in health and in a variety of disorders not associated with pericardial effusion. It will also be possible to improve our knowledge of pericardial pressure and the pericardial restraints on the heart.