pericardial cavity
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- The space between the layers of the pericardium: The pericardial cavity is the potential space located between the two layers of the pericardium, the serous membrane that surrounds the heart.
- A fluid-filled compartment: This cavity contains a small amount of serous fluid that lubricates the surfaces of the pericardial layers, reducing friction and allowing the heart to move easily during contraction and relaxation.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Inflammation can cause fluid to accumulate in the pericardial cavity, a condition known as pericardial effusion.
- The lubricating fluid within the pericardial cavity is essential for the heart's smooth, frictionless movement.
Advanced Usage
- "To drain the pericardial cavity": A medical procedure to remove excess fluid from this space.
- The surgeon had to drain the pericardial cavity to relieve pressure on the heart.
Variants and Related Words
- Pericardium (noun): The double-walled sac that contains the heart and the roots of the great vessels, and whose layers form the pericardial cavity.
- The pericardium is a protective membrane.
- Pericardial (adjective): Of or relating to the pericardium.
- The patient was diagnosed with pericardial disease.
Synonyms
- Pericardial space: A less common but synonymous term for the pericardial cavity.
Related Phrases
- Pericardial effusion: The abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial cavity.
- An ultrasound confirmed the presence of a pericardial effusion.
- Cardiac tamponade: A critical condition where fluid in the pericardial cavity puts excessive pressure on the heart, impairing its function.
- The rapid buildup of blood in the pericardial cavity led to cardiac tamponade.
Noun
- the space between the layers of the pericardium that contains fluid that lubricates the membrane surfaces and allows easy heart movement