Читать книгу Small Animal Surgical Emergencies - Группа авторов - Страница 66

The pericardium can be accessed via a lateral thoracotomy or a median sternotomy. The surgical approach will depend on the cause of the pericardial effusion. If a median sternotomy is being performed, a V‐trough, sandbags, and leg positioners will be helpful in proper positioning. Sterile tongue depressors can be used to aide in protection of vital heart structures while performing the pericardiectomy. Once the pericardium has been entered, the tongue depressor is applied between the epicardium and the cautery tip to prevent injury. Instruments recommended for either a lateral thoracotomy or median sternotomy are listed in Boxes 2.12 and 2.13. Additional instruments recommended for a pericardiectomy are listed in Box 2.15.