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Ency. home > Test > T > Thoracentesis

Thoracentesis   

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

Pleural fluid aspiration; Pleural tap

Definition:

A procedure to remove fluid from the space between the lungs and the wall of the chest. normally very little fluid is present in this space. the pleura is a thin membrane that lines the outside of the lung and the chest cavity. an accumulation of fluid between the layers of the pleura (lung membrane) is called a pleural effusion.

How the Test is Performed

A small area of skin on your chest or back is washed with a sterilizing solution. Some numbing medicine (local anesthetic) is injected in this area. A needle is then placed through the skin of the chest wall into the space around the lungs called the pleural space. A syringe is used to withdraw any fluid which can be sent to a laboratory for analysis (pleural fluid analysis).

How to Prepare for the Test

No special preparation is needed before the procedure. A chest X-ray is may be performed before and after the test. Do not cough, breathe deeply, or move during the test to avoid injury to the lung.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

How the Test will Feel

You will be positioned lying in bed or sitting on the edge of a chair or bed with your head and arms resting on a table. The skin around the procedure site is disinfected and the area is draped. A local anesthetic is injected into the skin. The thoracentesis needle is inserted above the rib into the pleural space.

There will be a stinging sensation when the local anesthetic is injected, and a sensation of pressure when the needle is inserted into the pleural space. Inform your health care provider if you develop shortness of breath or chest pain.

Why the Test is Performed

The test is performed to determine the cause of the fluid accumulation or to relieve the symptoms associated with the fluid accumulation.

Ency. home > Test > T > Thoracentesis

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