What is the definition or description of: ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis?

Drainage: It refers to using ultrasound to assist in directing placement of a needle into the pericardial cavity for drainage of fluid.

Pericardial effusion: Pericardial effusion is a collection of fluid around heart within a structure that surrounds the heart called the pericardium. Fluid may collect in this space for many reasons. Ultrasound allows you to put needle in the space and perfor diagnostic tap of fluid to make diagnosis via pathology. Additionally may be therepeutic to reduce pressure. Although more common to do pericardial window to drain.