Final answer:
Cardiac tamponade can be treated with pericardiocentesis or a pericardial window to drain the fluid in the pericardial sac.
Step-by-step explanation:
To treat cardiac tamponade, the primary goal is to relieve the compression on the heart caused by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac. This can be achieved through a procedure called pericardiocentesis, where a needle or catheter is inserted into the pericardial sac to drain the fluid.
In some cases, a surgical procedure called a pericardial window may be performed to create a small opening in the pericardium to allow fluid to drain. In addition to these interventions, medications may be prescribed to stabilize the patient's condition.
These may include diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, analgesics to manage pain, and blood thinners to prevent blood clots. In severe cases of cardiac tamponade, emergency interventions may be necessary, such as performing a controlled electric shock called cardioversion or defibrillation.