What Are the Risks of Thoracentesis?

The risks of thoracentesis are usually minor and will get better on their own, or they're easily treated. Your doctor may do a chest x ray after the procedure to check for lung problems.

The risks of thoracentesis include:

• Pneumothorax. This is a condition in which air collects in the pleural space (the area between the lungs and chest wall). Sometimes air comes in through the needle, or the needle makes a hole in a lung. Usually, a hole will seal itself. If enough air gets into the pleural space, however, the lung can collapse. Your doctor may need to put a tube in your chest to remove the air and let the lung expand again.
• Pain, bleeding, bruising, or infection where the needle or tube was inserted. In rare cases, bleeding may occur in or around the lungs. Your doctor may need to put a tube in the chest to drain the blood. In some cases, surgery may be needed.
• Liver or spleen injury. These complications are very rare.