Drainage / Drainage Catheter

Paracentesis

Paracentesis is a procedure to take out fluid that has collected in the abdomen.  This fluid is called ascites. Ascites may be caused by cirrhosis or cancer. Other causes include infection, inflammation, injury, or surgery. This is an outpatient procedure performed with local anesthesia. Ultrasound is used to localize the fluid. The skin is marked and then anesthesized with lidocaine. A small catheter is then inserted into the fluid. The catheter tubing is connected to a bottle with negative pressure and the fluid is then removed. The fluid is sent to a lab and studied to find the cause of the fluid buildup.

Thoracentesis

Thoracentesis is a procedure in which a needle is inserted into the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This procedure is done to remove excess fluid, known as a pleural effusion, from the pleural space to help you breathe easier. This is an outpatient procedure performed with local anesthesia. Ultrasound is used to localize the fluid. The skin is marked and then anesthesized with lidocaine. A small catheter is then inserted into the fluid. The catheter tubing is connected to a bottle with negative pressure and the fluid is then removed. The fluid is sent to a lab and studied to find the cause of the fluid buildup.

Drainage Catheter Placement/Removal

A drainage catheter may be placed due to an abscess, seroma, lymphocele, ascites, cyst, or fluid accumulation.  This is done as an outpatient procedure, usually with conscious sedation. The removal of the drain will be coordinated with your doctor for the appropriate removal time.

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