What Is Cardiac Tamponade?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
10. Treatment
In cases of acute cardiac tamponade, the condition is going to be a medical emergency. The excess fluid in the pericardium will need to be removed immediately so the heart can begin functioning fully again. This is usually achieved with a catheter that will help to drain away the excess fluid. Sometimes, a part of the pericardial sac will be removed to help prevent a recurrence of the condition.
While the patient’s symptoms should ease almost straight away, further treatment is still often needed. This can include antibiotics if the condition was caused by an infection. Medication can also be provided to help the heart to recover, and medication to help increase blood pressure is also sometimes prescribed.
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