subxiphoid

The other location is through the infrasternal angle and is also called subxiphoid approach.

This can be done laterally through the intercostal spaces, usually the fifth, or as a subxiphoid approach.

ICD lead sytems can be inserted by median sternotomy at the time of coronary or valve surgery or by a more limited left lateral thoracotomy or a subxiphoid approach.

This is treated in an emergency by inserting a needle into the pericardium to drain the fluid (pericardiocentesis), or if the fluid is too thick then a subxiphoid window is performed to cut the pericardium and release the fluid.