|
|
||||
 | ||||
|
 |
Thoracentesis(Pleural Fluid Aspiration; Pleural Tap)Pronounced: Thor-a-sen-TEE-sis DefinitionA pleural effusion is the build up of fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This space is called the pleural space. Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid from this area. There are two types of thoracentesis:
Reasons for ProcedureThere is always a small amount of fluid in the pleural space. The fluid helps to lubricate the area. When too much fluid builds up in this space, it can make it difficult to breathe. Your doctor may want to test some of the fluid after extracting it. The build up of fluid can be a symptom of diseases or disorders, such as:
Possible ComplicationsComplications are rare but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a thoracentesis, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include: What to ExpectPrior to ProcedureYour doctor may order: AnesthesiaA local anesthetic will be used. It will numb the area where the needle will be inserted. Description of the ProcedureYou will usually be asked to sit upright on the edge of a bed or on a chair. Your arms will be resting on a nearby table. A small patch of skin on your back, chest, or under your armpit will be sterilized. The anesthesia will be applied to help numb the area. A needle will be inserted in between your ribs and into the pleural space. A thin plastic catheter may be used as well. You should avoid coughing, breathing deeply, or moving during the procedure. Some or all of the fluid will be drawn into the syringe. Placement of Thoracentesis Needle  © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. How Long Will It Take?About 15 minutes Will It Hurt?You may feel slight pain or a stinging when the needle is first inserted. As the fluid is being extracted, you may feel a sense of pulling. Tell your doctor or nurse if you feel extreme pain, if you feel any shortness of breath, or if you feel faint. Post-procedure CareAt the Care CenterIf the thoracentesis is being done for diagnostic reasons, the fluid will be sent to a lab for testing. Often, another chest x-ray will be done to ensure that the fluid has been removed. At HomeKeep the area of skin where the needle was inserted clean and dry. To help make your recovery smooth, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions. If a diagnostic thoracentesis was done, ask your doctor when to expect the results. Call Your DoctorAfter arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:
RESOURCES: American Lung Association American Thoracic Society CANADIAN RESOURCES: The Canadian Institutes of Health Information (CIHI) The Canadian Lung Association References: Mason RJ. Murray & Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory Medicine . 4th ed. WB Saunders; 2005. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine . 16th ed. McGraw-Hill; 2005. Roberts JR. Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine . 4th ed. WB Saunders; 2004. Last reviewed October 2009 by Mohei Abouzied, MD and Brian P. Randall, MD Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2009 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
|
||
 |
||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |