EchoBridge Pearl #24: Assessing Pericardial Effusions from Multiple Views
An effusion may be visible in one view but absent in another, and its apparent size can vary substantially depending on the imaging plane.
Before determining the presence, size, or distribution of a pericardial effusion, systematically examine all standard cardiac windows to avoid underestimating or overestimating the effusion.
In these clips, note how the pericardial effusion appears most prominent in the subxiphoid long-axis view.
References:
đź“– Alerhand S, Adrian RJ, Long B, Avila J. Pericardial tamponade: A comprehensive emergency medicine and echocardiography review. Am J Emerg Med. 2022.
đź“– Alerhand S, Carter JM. What echocardiographic findings suggest a pericardial effusion is causing tamponade? Am J Emerg Med. 2019.
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