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Thoracentesis in pericardial and pleural effusion caused by central venous catheterization: a less invasive neonatal approach
Author(s) -
Pignotti Maria Serenella,
Messeri Andrea,
Donzelli Gianpaolo
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
pediatric anesthesia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.704
H-Index - 82
eISSN - 1460-9592
pISSN - 1155-5645
DOI - 10.1046/j.1460-9592.2003.01225.x
Subject(s) - medicine , thoracentesis , pericardiocentesis , hemopericardium , pericardial effusion , surgery , pleural effusion , catheter , central venous catheter , shock (circulatory) , radiology , cardiac tamponade
Summary An 840 g infant developed a rapid onset of shock‐like symptoms. Pericardial and pleural effusions from an indwelling central catheter were diagnosed via echocardiography. A thoracentesis was promptly performed with immediate clinical improvement. The fluid withdrawn from the pleural space was analysed as hyperalimentation. The infant survived because of early diagnosis and aggressive therapeutic intervention. A pericardial effusion should be drained if there is cardiovascular compromise and because pericardiocentesis represents a high risk technique, attempts should be made to rectify the extravasation via thoracentesis.