The silent hydropericardium in pregnancy: Avoidable pericardiocentesis with emergency cesarean section saves life

Abstract

Pericardial effusions are associated with various etiology, with treatment varying from careful monitoring to pericardiocentesis, particularly in those symptomatic or reaching cardiac tamponade. Pericardial effusion in pregnancy poses a different challenge as treatment decisions can influence both mother and fetus. We reported a case of large hydropericardium with impending cardiac tamponade successfully treated with an emergency cesarian section without urgent pericardiocentesis.