management

Last reviewed 01/2018

The basis of management is treatment of any underlying disorder.

Other features include:

  • analgesia with NSAIDs, for example indomethacin or ibuprofen
  • large pericardial effusions complicated by hypotension should be aspirated under ECG and echocardiographic monitoring and cardiac surgical backup
  • aspiration of a pericardial effusion may also be required for diagnostic purposes