What Is Thoracentesis?
Thoracentesis (THOR-a-sen-TE-sis) is a procedure to
remove excess fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This
space is called the pleural space.
Normally, the pleural space is filled with a small
amount of fluidabout 4 teaspoons full. But some conditions, such as
heart
failure, lung infections, and tumors, can cause more fluid to build up.
When this happens, its called a
pleural
effusion. A lot of extra fluid can press on the lungs, making it hard to
breathe.
Overview
Thoracentesis is done to find the cause of a pleural
effusion. It also may be done to help you breathe easier.
During the procedure, your doctor inserts a thin
needle or plastic tube into the pleural space and draws out the excess fluid.
Usually, doctors take only the amount of fluid needed to find the cause of the
pleural effusion. However, if there's a lot of fluid, they may take more. This
helps the lungs expand and take in more air, which allows you to breathe
easier.
After the fluid is removed from your chest, it's
sent for testing. Once the cause of the pleural effusion is known, your doctor
will plan treatment. For example, if an infection is causing the excess fluid,
you may be given antibiotics to fight the infection. If the cause is heart
failure, you will be treated for that condition.
Thoracentesis usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. It may
take longer if there's a lot of fluid in the pleural space. You will be watched
for up to a few hours after the procedure for complications.
Outlook
The procedure usually doesn't cause serious
problems, but some risks are involved. These include
pneumothorax
(noo-mo-THOR-aks), or collapsed lung; pain, bleeding, bruising, or infection
where the needle or tube was inserted; and liver or spleen injury (very rare).
Most of these complications get better on their own,
or they're easily treated.
December 2007 |