Paracentesis

What is it?

A paracentesis, also called an abdominal tap, takes out fluid in the abdominal cavity, the area between the spine and belly wall. A needle and syringe inserted into the abdomen is used to extract the fluid.

What is for?

A paracentesis can find out the cause of fluid buildup in this space or find out if the buildup is infected. A paracentesis is sometimes done to relieve belly pain.

How to prepare

• Tell your doctor about your medical history and medications you are taking
• Before the procedure, you will be asked to empty your bladder. If you are having problems urinating, a catheter may be placed in your bladder to drain urine during the procedure.

Risks

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Rapid drop in blood pressure
• Structural injuries within the abdomen

What happens during?

• An I.V. line is used to supply fluids and medications
• You will be awake
• Ultrasound may be used to show images inside your abdomen. The images show precisely where the excess fluid is located and where the needle should be inserted.
• Anesthesia is used to numb the area of the incision site
• Once the area is numb, the needle is inserted and fluid and extracted into the needle
• If only a sample of fluid is needed, the needle is removed after only a small amount of fluid is obtained
• A syringe or tube may be attached to the needle to collect and drain large amounts of fluid
• Once the necessary amount of fluid is drained, the needle is removed. If a syringe or tube is used, those are also removed.
• Pressure is used at the incision site to prevent bleeding or fluid leakage
• Bandaging is placed over the incision site

What happens after?

• If a sample of fluid was needed, the sample is sent to a lab for analysis
• You will be in a recovery room for approximately 1 to 2 hours before being sent home
• You should limit activity for about 24 hours after the procedure
• You should be able to take the bandage off the incision site 24 hours following the procedure
• Regularly check the incision site for signs of infection

Side effects

• A fever of 100°F or higher
• Bleeding or fluid leakage from the incision site
• Bloody urine
• Dizziness, fainting or lightheadedness
• Infection at the incision site
• Pain that doesn’t go away despite using pain medications
• Shortness of breath
• Stomach pain not related to the incision site
• Swelling in the abdomen