The Use of a Polyethylene Catheter in Pericardial Paracentesis

PERICARDIAL paracentesis is often a useful and necessary procedure, but its application has been limited by its danger.1 Although there is relatively little risk from perforation of the ventricular wall, hemopericardium may result from injury to a coronary vessel or perforation of the thin-walled atrium. In addition to the hazard of the initial puncture, any movement of the needle or change in the position of the patient is attended by a risk.A simple and relatively safe technic for the aspiration of pericardial fluid has been devised. A polyethylene catheter is introduced into the pericardial sac through a paracentesis needle, . . .