Pericardial effusion is abnormal accumulation of fluid within pericardial sac. Etiologies range from infections to malignancies. Effusions are classified based on size, duration, composition, and cause, often assessed using echocardiography.
Clinical presentations vary from asymptomatic to severe, including cardiac tamponade, which presents with hypotension, elevated venous pressure, and muffled heart sounds. Diagnostic tools include echocardiography, ECG, chest X-ray, CT, and MRI.
Management depends on effusion size and cause. Conservative treatment addresses underlying factors and may involve NSAIDs, colchicine, diuretics, antibiotics, and analgesics. Pericardiocentesisis indicated for hemodynamic instability, large effusions, or unclear causes, but carries high risk of complications and recurrence rates.
U-VATS has emerged as a crucial advancement in managing recurrent pericardial effusion. The modified technique for pleuropericardial window creation entails suturing the pericardial edges to the chest wall. This prevents future adhesions, establishes a durable connection between the pericardial and pleural cavities thus significantly reduce the recurrence.

AIM OF THE WORK:
The aim of this work was to evaluate Alexandria University technique for doing pleuropericardial window using uni-portal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.