The pericardiocentesis needle is fitted with sensors, such as at least one electrode or at least one magnetic field sensor, and preferably both a proximal and a distal electrodes or multiple magnetic field sensors. These electrodes or other sensors are coupled to an electrophysiology mapping system configured to display cardiac structures on a display. The electrodes or other sensors on the needle cause a position, and preferably also orientation, of the needle, and especially the tip of the needle, to be visualized on a display of the electrophysiology mapping system, in accurate position relative to adjacent cardiac structures. In other embodiments other transcutaneous devices such as dilators and sheaths can be similarly fitted with electrodes or other sensors for visualization of such other devices within a display of an EP mapping system.
