Abdominal Fluid Drainage Procedure (Paracentesis)
Posted on: November 18, 2023 *Updated on: May 27, 2024A paracentesis is a medical procedure designed to extract fluid from both the peritoneum and the abdominal cavity. This technique is commonly utilized in cases of peritoneal mesothelioma, a type of cancer that originates within the peritoneum. The accumulation of fluid within these areas is medically referred to as ascites.
Key Steps of the Paracentesis Procedure: During this procedure, medical professionals will carefully insert a hollow needle into the abdominal cavity to drain the excessive fluid buildup. To ensure accurate needle placement and fluid identification, ultrasound guidance is frequently employed to locate the fluid precisely. It’s important to note that paracentesis offers a temporary solution for ascites management. In some instances, healthcare providers might need to perform this procedure multiple times to effectively alleviate fluid accumulation and mitigate mesothelioma-related discomfort. On average, the entire paracentesis procedure lasts about half an hour. In addition to its therapeutic role, paracentesis can also contribute to the diagnostic process of peritoneal mesothelioma. Skilled surgeons might be able to extract small samples of affected tissue during the procedure, which are then sent to pathology for analysis. This analysis aids in the detection of any potential mesothelioma cancer cells.
If you are or someone you care for is thinking about this procedure please consult your family and medical team.