Pleural Tap (Thoracentesis)
Thoracentesis, also known as a pleural tap, is a procedure done when there’s too much fluid in the chest pleural space (a potential space around your lungs- that is between the lungs and the chest wall). This allows a pleural fluid analysis to be performed in the laboratory to figure out the cause of fluid accumulation around one or both of the lungs and also gives therapeutic relief to the patient in terms of relieving labored breathing. This space normally contains approximately 4 teaspoons of fluid.
Some conditions can cause more fluid to enter this space. These conditions include:
- cancer tumors
- pneumonia or other lung infection
- congestive heart failure
- chronic lung diseases
In this procedure, a fine needle is placed into the lung cavity to drain out fluid under ultrasound guidance and local anesthesia cover.
If the purpose is diagnostic, small amount of fluid is aspirated and large amount is withdrawn if the purpose is therapeutic.
Indications
To take out excess of fluid for
- Cause of disease
- Temporary or permanent relief
Before Procedure
- Book prior appointment
- Referring Doctor prescription, previous lab results (*PT/INR and CBC), imaging (CT/PET-CT/USG/MRI).
- If you are on blood thinner like Aspirin, clopidogrel or any oral/injectable anticoagulant like heparin, inform during appointment.
- One accompanying person
- Need to sign a consent form for procedure to ensure that you have understood the potential risks associated with the procedure
Results
Sample fluid is sent for routine exam and culture of microorganism. Routine report takes 24 hrs. and culture can take long time (up to 3 days).
