Cardicentesis is a medical procedure in which a needle is inserted into the heart to obtain a sample of fluid for analysis. The spelling of this word is based on its Greek roots, with "cardi" meaning heart and "centesis" meaning puncture. The correct way to pronounce this word is /kɑrdɪsənˈtisis/ with the stress on the third syllable. It is important to use correct spelling and pronunciation in medical terminology to ensure clarity and accuracy in communication between healthcare professionals.
Cardicentesis is a medical procedure commonly referred to as a percutaneous or transvenous puncture of the heart, which involves the insertion of a needle or catheter into the heart chamber to remove fluid or perform various diagnostic or therapeutic measures. It is an invasive technique that allows access to the pericardial space or heart chambers to obtain fluid or tissue samples for pathological analysis, relieve pressure caused by pericardial effusion (accumulation of fluid), or deliver medication.
In cardicentesis, the patient is usually under local anesthesia, and a needle is carefully inserted through the chest wall or subxiphoid region into the pericardial space, which surrounds the heart. Alternatively, a specialized catheter may be guided through a vein or artery until it reaches the desired heart chamber, allowing for various manipulations.
This procedure is commonly employed in emergency situations where pericardial effusion is causing life-threatening symptoms such as severe chest pain, cardiac tamponade, or impaired cardiac function. It aids in the diagnosis of various cardiac conditions, such as pericarditis, epicardial bleeding, or myocardial infarction, as well as in therapeutic interventions like pericardial drainage or injection of medications.
Cardicentesis should always be performed by skilled healthcare professionals, as it carries potential risks, including heart perforation, bleeding, infection, arrhythmias, or damage to surrounding structures. Adequate monitoring and follow-up evaluations are necessary to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.
Cardiocentesis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cardicentesis" is derived from two roots: "cardi-", which refers to the heart, and "-centesis", which means to puncture or tap, typically for the purpose of removing fluid or obtaining a sample.
The root "cardi-" comes from the Greek word "kardía" (καρδία), meaning heart. This is a common root found in various medical terms related to the heart, such as "cardiology" (study of the heart), "cardiac" (referring to the heart), and "cardiologist" (a doctor specializing in the heart).
The suffix "-centesis" comes from another Greek word "kentésis" (κέντησις), which means puncture or tapping.