The human heart is surrounded by pericardium, a double-walled fluid-filled sac. Tuberculosis can cause pericardial effusion, a condition in which excess fluid collects in the pericardium. Write the name of the procedure that involves the use of a syringe to drain excess fluid from the pericardium.

• A. Pericardiostomy
• B. Pericardiocentesis
• C. Pericardiectomy
• D. Pericardial diffusion

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the medical condition described. Pericardial effusion is the accumulation of excess fluid in the pericardium, the double-walled sac surrounding the heart.
2. Step 2: Identify the goal of the procedure needed. The goal is to remove or drain the excess fluid from the pericardium to relieve pressure on the heart.
3. Step 3: Recognize the terminology components: 'Pericardio-' refers to the pericardium, and '-centesis' means puncture or aspiration using a needle or syringe to remove fluid.
4. Step 4: Differentiate between the options: 'Pericardiocentesis' involves using a syringe to drain fluid; 'Pericardiostomy' is creating a surgical opening; 'Pericardiectomy' is surgical removal of the pericardium; 'Pericardial diffusion' is not a standard medical term.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the procedure involving a syringe to drain fluid from the pericardium is called 'Pericardiocentesis'.