Dr Boon Lim - Consultant Cardiologist London
What is Cardiac Tamponade
Cardiac tamponade is a clinical syndrome caused by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space, resulting in reduced ventricular filling and subsequent hemodynamic compromise
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The accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, particularly if it happens quickly, can result in marked increased pressure outside the heart; this subsequently reduces the ability of the ventricles to accommodate enough blood volume at the end of diastole. .
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Based on Frank Starling’s law, a decreased end diastolic volume means weaker stroke volume and hence lower systolic blood pressure. .
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Also, increased outside pressure reduces the end systolic filling capacity of the atria, hence a rapid increase and higher pressure in atria leads to an increased pressure in, and distension of, the jugular veins even when the patient is in an upright position
.
.
Excess fluid around the heart deadens the cardiac sounds
What is Cardiac Tamponade
Cardiac tamponade is a clinical syndrome caused by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space, resulting in reduced ventricular filling and subsequent hemodynamic compromise
.
.
The accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, particularly if it happens quickly, can result in marked increased pressure outside the heart; this subsequently reduces the ability of the ventricles to accommodate enough blood volume at the end of diastole. .
.
Based on Frank Starling’s law, a decreased end diastolic volume means weaker stroke volume and hence lower systolic blood pressure. .
.
Also, increased outside pressure reduces the end systolic filling capacity of the atria, hence a rapid increase and higher pressure in atria leads to an increased pressure in, and distension of, the jugular veins even when the patient is in an upright position
.
.
Excess fluid around the heart deadens the cardiac sounds