Ultrasound-Guided Thoracentesis is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove excess fluid from the pleural space (the area between the lungs and the chest wall). This fluid buildup, known as pleural effusion, can cause shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and other respiratory issues.
Using real-time ultrasound guidance, this procedure ensures greater accuracy and safety, reducing the risk of complications. It is commonly performed for:
Diagnosis: Collecting fluid samples to determine the cause of pleural effusion, such as infection, cancer, or heart failure.
Symptom Relief: Removing excess fluid to improve breathing and reduce discomfort.
Treatment Monitoring: Assessing and managing recurrent pleural effusions in chronic conditions.
Your doctor may recommend an Ultrasound-Guided Thoracentesis if imaging tests show fluid accumulation around the lungs.
A Thoracentesis is a crucial procedure for both diagnosing and treating pleural effusion. Using ultrasound guidance, doctors can pinpoint the exact location of the fluid, increasing precision and minimizing risks such as lung injury or incomplete drainage.
This quick and relatively painless procedure is performed under local anesthesia, allowing for a smoother experience and faster recovery. By relieving pressure on the lungs, Thoracentesis helps improve breathing and enhances overall lung function.
A Thoracentesis is an essential procedure for evaluating and managing fluid buildup in the lungs. Ultrasound guidance ensures accuracy, enhances patient safety, and improves treatment outcomes.
If you have any questions about the Ultrasound-Guided Thoracentesis, please contact the Pulmonary Procedure Department at 281-713-8676.
You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure. Your doctor may also review your medications, especially blood thinners.
You will be positioned upright, and an ultrasound will be used to locate the fluid. After numbing the area with local anesthesia, a thin needle will be inserted to drain the excess fluid.
Most patients feel mild pressure but not pain, thanks to the local anesthesia. Some may experience a temporary urge to cough.
The procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the amount of fluid being removed.
If fluid is sent for testing, lab results may take a few days, and your doctor will discuss the findings with you.
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