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 determine 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).
Author:Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Steven L. Flamm, MD - Gastroenterology
Steven L. Flamm, MD - Gastroenterology
Last Updated: 01/25/2008
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