A
paracentesis involves removing peritoneal fluid from the abdominal cavity with
the use of needle aspiration.
Also Known As:
Conditions
Treated with a Paracentesis:
A
paracentesis is performed in order to diagnose a cause of fluid accumulation or
relieve abdominal pressure, often in cases of chest pain, abdominal pain or
difficulty breathing. It can be used to diagnose conditions such as
pancreatitis, carcinoma, lymphoma, tuberculosis, portal hypertension,
congestive heart failure and appendicitis.
There
are no comparable non-surgical or surgical alternatives to a paracentesis.
Anesthesia with a
Paracentesis:
A
paracentesis is performed with local anesthesia.
Potential
Complications from a Paracentesis:
Possible
risks following a paracentesis include hemorrhage, bladder perforation,
intestinal perforation, low blood pressure and a negative reaction to the
anesthesia. It is also possible to require emergency laparoscopy or laparotomy.
Prognosis after a
Paracentesis:
The
prognosis for a positive end result following a paracentesis is good.
Recovery from a
Paracentesis:
There
is minimal recovery time needed for a paracentesis.
.jpg "Paracentesis")
.jpg "Paracentesis by OrangeCountySurgeons.org (2)")
