Space
Pericardial cavity
The thin fluid-containing space between serous surfaces
High-yield
The heart lies inside the pericardial sac but is not a free object within the fluid-filled pericardial cavity.
Overview
The pericardial cavity lies between the parietal serous lining and the visceral surface of the heart. Normally it contains only a small amount of fluid. Its recesses and sinuses follow the complex reflections around the vessels entering and leaving the heart.
Reference facts
- Boundaries
- Parietal serous pericardium externally and visceral serous pericardium internally
- Contents
- A thin layer of lubricating fluid under normal conditions
- Communications
- Continuous with pericardial sinuses and recesses; normally no open connection to a pleural cavity
Clinical correlation
An effusion increases fluid in this space. Tamponade occurs when pericardial pressure impairs cardiac filling; accumulation rate and pericardial compliance are as important as volume.
Frequently asked questions
What are the boundaries of the pericardial cavity?
The pericardial cavity is bounded by the parietal serous pericardium externally and visceral serous pericardium internally.
What does the pericardial cavity contain?
A thin layer of lubricating fluid under normal conditions.
What does the pericardial cavity communicate with?
Continuous with pericardial sinuses and recesses; normally no open connection to a pleural cavity.