Cardiac tamponade is an emergency condition that requires hospitalization. Treatment is aimed at saving the patient's life, improving heart function, relieving symptoms, and treating the tamponade. These goals are usually accomplished with a procedure called pericardiocentesis, where the fluid around the heart is drained, or by cutting and removing part of the pericardieum (pericardial window).

Fluids are the initial treatment to maintin normal blood pressure until pericardiocentesis can be performed. Medications that increase blood pressure may also help sustain the patient's life until the fluid is evacuated.

The patient may be given oxygen -- this reduces the workload on the heart by decreasing tissue demands for blood flow.

The cause of the tamponade must be identified and treated. Treatment of the cause may include medications, such as antibiotics, and surgical repair of injury.

Cutting and/or removal of part of the pericardium (surgical pericardiectomy also known as pericardial window) may be required for most tamponade patients.

Tamponade is life threatening if untreated. The outcome is often good if the condition is treated promptly, but tamponade may recur.

• Heart failure
• Pulmonary edema

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms develop. Cardiac tamponade is an emergency condition requiring immediate attention!