Medically Reviewed by Dr. ,,
Written by KIE Editorial Contributors
Pericardiectomy surgery is typically performed through an open chest approach, where a surgeon accesses the pericardium by making an incision through the sternum or between the ribs. The main goal is to remove the fibrotic or calcified pericardium that is compressing the heart and impairing its function.
This procedure allows the heart chambers to fill and pump blood effectively, relieving symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, and swelling in the legs and abdomen.
The most common indication of pericardiectomy is constrictive pericarditis, a chronic inflammation that causes the pericardium to harden and restrict the heart’s natural movement.Other pericardiectomy indications include:
The decision to perform this cardiac procedure is usually made when conservative treatment fails, and the condition begins to severely affect heart function.
The surgical procedure involves carefully removing the affected tissue or organ under sterile conditions. It begins with anesthesia, followed by an incision and the targeted operation. Surgeons then close the site using sutures or staples. The goal is to treat the condition effectively while minimizing risks and promoting recovery.
Depending on the severity and underlying condition, the procedure can take 2–4 hours.
When patients are diagnosed with constrictive pericarditis, the heart is often encased in a thick, scarred pericardium. This condition leads to symptoms such as swelling in the legs, breathlessness, abdominal bloating, fatigue, and reduced exercise capacity.
A pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis helps:
In many cases, pericardiectomy is the only definitive treatment for this condition, especially when it's caused by tuberculosis, previous heart surgery, or radiation therapy.
Recovery after pericardiectomy varies from patient to patient. The immediate post-operative period often requires close monitoring in an intensive care unit (ICU) for a few days. Full recovery may take several weeks, during which patients gradually regain strength, manage pain, and follow a personalized rehabilitation plan under medical supervision.
Life after pericardiectomy can significantly improve, especially in patients who had severe limitations before surgery. Most patients experience less shortness of breath, more energy, and an overall improvement in quality of life within weeks to months.
Pericardiectomy generally has a good survival rate, especially when performed early in suitable candidates. Outcomes depend on the underlying cause, overall health, and timing of surgery. Most patients experience significant relief from symptoms like breathlessness and improved heart function, leading to a better quality of life post-surgery. The pericardiectomy survival rate depends on several factors, including:
However, treatment is usually recommended if:
Modern surgical techniques, experienced cardiac surgeons, and better post-op care have significantly improved both short-term and long-term survival rates.
Pericardiectomy, like any major surgery, carries potential risks and complications. These may include
bleeding, infection, arrhythmias, or damage to nearby organs. In some cases, heart function may be
temporarily affected.
However, with experienced surgical care and proper post-operative monitoring, most complications can be
managed effectively to ensure a safe recovery. As with any open heart surgery, pericardiectomy carries
potential risks and complications:
Although rare, these complications can be serious. That’s why patients are thoroughly evaluated and prepared before undergoing this major thoracic surgery.
You should speak to a cardiologist or thoracic surgeon if you experience:
Early detection of pericardial disease and timely surgical intervention can lead to better recovery and survival.
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Yes, pericardiectomy is considered major open-heart surgery and requires general anesthesia and post-operative ICU care.
Recovery after pericardiectomy can take 4 to 8 weeks, with most patients gradually regaining strength and heart function.
Common tests include echocardiography, cardiac MRI, CT scans, and cardiac catheterisation to assess pericardial thickness and heart function.
Yes, pericardiectomy is most often performed through open-heart surgery, requiring a chest incision and specialised cardiac care.
Not always. Depending on the case, surgeons may perform the procedure with or without cardiopulmonary bypass support.
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