pericardiectomyremoval

A pericardiectomy is a surgical procedure in which part or all of the pericardium—the fibrous sac surrounding the heart—is removed. This operation is typically performed to address conditions that cause pericardial thickening, constriction, or recurrent fluid accumulation, which can impair cardiac function. The most common indication for a pericardiectomy is **constrictive pericarditis**, a chronic inflammatory condition that restricts the heart’s ability to fill properly, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, edema, and shortness of breath.

The procedure is usually conducted under general anesthesia, with the surgeon accessing the pericardium through an incision in the chest (median sternotomy) or via a minimally invasive approach, such as thoracoscopy. In cases of severe adhesions or recurrent pericardial disease, a subtotal or total pericardiectomy may be necessary. Postoperatively, patients require careful monitoring for complications, including bleeding, infection, or arrhythmias, as well as gradual recovery of cardiac function.

Pericardiectomy carries risks, including those associated with any major surgery, such as blood loss, organ injury, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Long-term outcomes generally improve symptoms in most patients, though recurrence of pericardial disease is possible. The procedure is considered a last-resort treatment after conservative measures, such as anti-inflammatory medications or pericardiocentesis (drainage of pericardial fluid), have failed.

Recovery typically involves several weeks of hospitalization, followed by a gradual return to normal activities. Physical therapy and cardiac rehabilitation may be recommended to optimize recovery. While pericardiectomy is not without risks, it remains an effective option for patients with severe pericardial disease when other treatments prove insufficient.