Laparoscopic pericardial window.

The patient with a malignant pericardial effusion can be extremely difficult to treat and provide optimal palliation. The performance of transabdominal laparoscopic pericardial window may prove to be a significant advance in the management of these individuals. No previously reported description of this procedure has been found in the world literature as far back as 1966. A presentation of the case, description of the surgical procedure, and discussion of the therapeutic implications are provided.