Abdominal Paracentesis

A procedure in which a needle is used to remove a sample of fluid or to drain an abnormal accumulation of fluid

Parts of the Body Involved

Abdomen

Reasons for Procedure

To determine the reason for fluid accumulation in the abdomen, which may occur due to:
  • Internal bleeding after an injury
  • Infection
  • Cancer
  • Liver disease (including cirrhosis of the liver)
  • Pancreatic disease

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

  • Bleeding disorder
  • Excess scar tissue from previous surgeries or injuries
  • Pregnancy
  • Severe intestinal inflammation or distension
  • Bladder distension not decreased by emptying the bladder via catheterization
  • Infection in the area where the paracentesis instrument will be inserted
  • Severe, acute abdominal condition requiring immediate surgery

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Your doctor will likely do some or all of the following:
  • Physical exam
  • X-ray
  • CT scan

Outcome

You should take it relatively easy the day following your procedure, but you wont need to continue to restrict your activities based on having had an abdominal paracentesis.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the paracentesis site
  • You feel faint or lightheaded