
Paracentesis is a procedure used to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity. The fluid buildup may be caused by infection, inflammation, injury, cirrhosis or cancer. A diagnostic paracentesis is performed to determine the cause of the fluid buildup, while a therapeutic paracentesis is performed to relieve shortness of breath and pain.
Paracentesis can be scheduled at:
Paracentesis procedures typically take 45-60 minutes, with an additional 30-60 minutes monitoring post-procedure.
You will be positioned on a cushioned table. The needle insertion site will be cleansed and draped with sterile towels. A numbing medicine will be applied to your abdomen. Once the area is numb, the needle will be inserted and the fluid will be removed
If this was a diagnostic procedure, a sample of fluid will be sent to a laboratory for examination. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider who will then contact you to discuss the results.
You will be monitored for 30-60 minutes after your procedure.