Paracentesis
When a person is diagnosed with cancer that develops in the abdominal cavity, there is often a large amount of fluid that develops in response to the symptoms of the cancer. This condition is known as ascites. Fluid buildup can be a cause of many complications other than cancer such as inflammation, injury and infection. In order to diagnose this condition, the doctor may perform a routine x-ray or ultra sound of the abdominal area that can potentially guide the doctor into what treatment process would be the best for the patient. The most common procedure to eliminate the fluid of the abdomen is paracentesis.
The main goal of paracentesis is to remove the excess fluid that has developed. The doctor may first decide to remove some of the fluid taken out by a needle and sent to the lab for primary testing. This will determine whether or not the fluid can cause serious health problems to the patient. This process also determines whether or not there is an infection within the fluid build up. With any type of fluid buildup, patients remain uncomfortable and in pain. Paracentesis is responsible for removing a large portion of the fluid so that the patient is able to live without the discomfort of an enlarged abdomen. It is important not to forget, however, that some fluid within the abdominal cavity is normal. It allows the organs to move freely without friction against one another. As long as that stays under control, there is no need for performing paracentesis.
In order to prepare for the procedure, the patient should set up a consultation setting with their doctor. Here the physician may ask what medications the patient may be taking that could interfere with the process. Blood tests are done pre-procedure to look for possible sign of blood clotting and other conditions. A patient will also be asked to come into the procedure with an empty bladder. Other concerns before the day of the paracentesis should be discussed with a physician.
Last modified: December 17 2007.
