thoracenteses

Thoracentesis is a medical procedure used to remove excess fluid or air from the pleural space, the area between the lungs and the chest wall. This fluid, known as pleural effusion, can accumulate due to various conditions such as heart failure, pneumonia, liver disease, or cancer. The buildup of fluid can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

The procedure typically involves a healthcare professional using a needle or catheter inserted through the chest wall into the pleural space. Local anesthetic is usually administered to numb the area before the needle is inserted. The fluid or air is then slowly withdrawn using a syringe or a vacuum bottle. The collected sample may be sent to a laboratory for analysis to determine the cause of the effusion.

Thoracentesis is generally considered a safe procedure, but potential risks include bleeding, infection, pneumothorax (collapsed lung), and pain at the insertion site. The amount of fluid removed is carefully managed to avoid complications. After the procedure, a chest X-ray may be performed to check for any complications. Thoracentesis can provide symptomatic relief and aid in diagnosing the underlying cause of the pleural effusion.