Paracentesis
Paracentesis is a procedure in which fluid from the abdomen is removed through a needle. There are two reasons to take fluid out of the abdomen; one is to analyze it, the other is to relieve pressure. The liquid that accumulates in the abdomen is called ascites. Ascites seeps out of organs for several reasons related either to disease in the organ or changing fluid pressures. This procedure is performed using local anesthesia and ultrasound guidance. In some cases this procedure may be repeated, sometimes even weekly, to provide the patient with relief from their discomfort.
