Remarkable advances have occurred in the understanding of the pathophysiology of pericardial diseases and the role of multimodality imaging in this field. Medical therapy and surgical options for pericardial diseases have also evolved substantially. Pericardiectomy is indicated for chronic or irreversible constrictive pericarditis, refractory recurrent pericarditis despite optimal medical therapy, or partial agenesis of the pericardium with a complication (e.g., herniation). A multidisciplinary evaluation prior to pericardiectomy is essential for optimal patient outcomes. Overall, given the good outcomes reported, radical pericardiectomy on cardiopulmonary bypass, if feasible, is the preferred approach. Due to patient complexity, as well as the technical aspects of the surgery, pericardiectomy should be performed at high volume centers which have the required expertise. The current review highlights the essential features of this multidisciplinary approach from diagnosis to recovery in patients undergoing pericardiectomy. 

Editors
Editor-in-Chief
Harlan M. Krumholz, MD, SM, FACC

CME Editor
Ragavendra R. Baliga, MD

Author
Matthew Ian Tomey, MD, FACC

Important Dates
Date of Release: July 29, 2024
Term of Approval/Date of CME/MOC Expiration: July 28, 2025