Paracentesis
Paracentesis is a procedure in which a needle is inserted through
the abdominal wall to remove fluid that has built up in the abdominal cavity
(ascites). It may be used as a test (diagnostic paracentesis) or as a treatment
(therapeutic paracentesis).
Paracentesis may be done to:
- Collect a fluid sample from the abdominal
cavity to help find out the cause of ascites
(diagnostic).
- Diagnose infection in the ascitic fluid
(diagnostic).
- Remove a large amount of fluid from the abdominal
cavity when the fluid is causing discomfort or affecting the function of the
kidneys or intestines (therapeutic).
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