Tag: Diagnostic paracentesis

Paracentesis is a routine procedure for collecting or draining excess fluid from the abdomen and has a low complication rate. The selection of **what gauge needle is used for paracentesis** is critical and depends on the specific goal, whether for a small diagnostic sample or large-volume therapeutic drainage.

Over 100,000 abdominal paracentesis procedures are performed annually in the U.S. alone. Selecting the appropriate needle gauge and length is a critical step for a successful procedure and patient safety, but the correct size depends on whether the procedure is for diagnosis or therapeutic drainage, as well as the patient's body habitus.

The abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen, known as ascites, is a common complication of advanced liver disease, with up to half of patients with cirrhosis developing it within 10 years. Knowing **when should paracentesis be done** is crucial, as this procedure serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

An estimated 80% of ascites cases are caused by cirrhosis, making abdominal paracentesis a common procedure for diagnosis and symptom relief. However, this invasive procedure is not without its risks and specific conditions that must be identified. Therefore, understanding what are the absolute contraindications for abdominal paracentesis is a critical component of medical safety.

Approximately 80% of ascites cases are caused by liver cirrhosis, leading to the need for a paracentesis to address fluid buildup. This procedure removes a specific fluid, rather than introducing one, and a proper understanding of **what type of fluid is used in a paracentesis?** is key to grasping its purpose. This guide clarifies the procedure, focusing on the fluid collected and the valuable diagnostic information it provides for healthcare professionals.

According to the National Institutes of Health, paracentesis is a common procedure used to remove abnormal fluid accumulation in the abdomen. This guide explains exactly what is the medical term for draining the abdomen and details everything you need to know about the procedure, its purpose, and what causes the condition that requires it.