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During a pericardiectomy, part of the membrane
surrounding the heart (the pericardium) is removed. This procedure is a
closed-heart surgery that is performed with an incision made between the ribs.
Also Known As:
Conditions Treated with a Pericardiectomy:
A pericardiectomy may be performed in cases of chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing, weakness and pericarditis.
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There are no comparable non-surgical or surgical
alternatives to a pericardiectomy.
Anesthesia with a Pericardiectomy:
A pericardiectomy is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from a Pericardiectomy:
Possible risks following a pericardiectomy include infection, bleeding and a negative reaction to the anesthesia.
Prognosis after a Pericardiectomy:
The prognosis for a positive end result following a pericardiectomy is very good.
Recovery from a Pericardiectomy:
Total recovery from a pericardiectomy takes two to four weeks.
