Thoracocentesis

Thoracocentesis (also known as pleural tap or pleural fluid aspiration) is a medical procedure involving the insertion of a needle into the pleural space to remove fluid or air for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

Indications

Thoracocentesis is typically performed when a patient has a pleural effusion or pneumothorax. It can be used to determine the cause of the effusion, relieve symptoms, or treat the pneumothorax.

Procedure

The patient is usually seated and the area where the needle will be inserted is numbed with a local anesthetic. The doctor then inserts a needle or small tube into the pleural space to remove the fluid or air.

Risks

While thoracocentesis is generally safe, it can cause complications such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, infection, or re-expansion pulmonary edema.

See also

• Pleural disease
• Pleural effusion
• Pneumothorax

References

Thoracocentesis Resources
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