ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the value of ultrasound-guided microcatheter pericardiocentesis in the management of malignant pericardial effusion.Methods A total of 13 patients with malignant pericardial effusion entered the study.Under the guidance of ultrasonography, the pericardial puncture was performed to introduce an epidural catheter(microcatheter).Through the microcatheter,the pericardial fluid was drawn out and chemotherapy drugs were injected into.Results Pericardial puncture and microcatheter implantation was conducted successfully in all the 13 patients.The total drainage volume was 400~780 ml(mean,530 ml).The survival rates at 3,12,and 24 months after the treatment were 92.3%(12/13),77.8%(7/9),and 60%(3/5),respectively.No recurrence of pericardial effusion was found. Conclusions Ultrasound-guided microcatheter pericardiocentesis in the treatment of malignant pericardial effusion is safe,minimally invasive,effective,and feasible.