<unk>  takes place by removing the infected, fibrosed, or otherwise damaged pericardium. The procedure begins when the surgeon makes an incision in the skin over the breastbone and divides the breastbone to expose the pericardium, known as a median sternotomy. Alternatively, a larger incision known as a thoracotomy may be used. During the surgery, the surgeon will hold the pericardium, cut the top of this fibrous covering of the heart, drop it into the specimen bag, and re-cover the heart. The breastbone is then wired back together and the incision is closed, completing the procedure. When the portion of pericardium lying between the two phrenic nerves is excised, it is called total<unk> . In cases where total<unk>  is not possible, subtotal<unk>  is performed or, in extreme cases, a cruciate incision on the pericardium is performed.
Pericardiectomy
Pericardial window
Cardiomyoplasty
Corticotomy
Pericardiocentesis
Balloon tamponade
Pulmonary tractotomy
Ventriculectomy