Cardiac tamponade is the compression of the heart. It is also known as pericardial tamponade. It is an uncommon condition that occur when blood or fluid builds up in the space between the myocardium (the muscle of the heart) and the pericardium (the outer covering sac of the heart). This fluid buildup puts pressure on the heart, making it difficult for the ventricles of the heart to fill with blood and resulting in cardiac tamponade. The overall risk of death depends on the speed of diagnosis, the treatment provided, and the underlying cause of the tamponade. Cardiac tamponade is an emergency condition that requires hospitalization.

Treatment of Cardiac tamponade is following:

• Treatment usually involves a procedure to drain the fluid around the heart or to cut and remove part of the pericardium, which may be done with a needle and catheter combination, balloon-tipped catheter or surgery. Often, an echocardiogram is used to help guide the entry of the needle. This use of ultrasound imaging has greatly improved its safety and effectiveness.  This invasive process is known as pericardiocentesis.
• Oxygen may be given to the patient because oxygen reduces the workload on the heart by decreasing tissue demands for blood flow.
• The cause of the tamponade must be identified and treated. Treatment of the cause may include medications such as antibiotics, and surgical repair of injury.
• Certain fluids may be given to maintain normal blood pressure of the patient until pericardiocentesis can be performed. Medicines that increase blood pressure may also help to sustain the patient’s life until the fluid is drained.
• Bed rest with the head slightly elevated minimizes the workload on the heart and may be recommended until the condition is stable.

Prevention:

Taking anti-inflammatory medications can help to prevent any fluid buildup in the pericardium which may lead to cardiac tamponade. Many cases are not preventable. Learning the warning signs and symptoms of fluid buildup in the pericardium (pericardial effusion), a person should contact a physician immediately if any of these are experienced.