Thoracentesis

Thoracentesis is a minimally invasive procedure that removes fluid from the space between the lungs and the chest wall, which is known as the pleural space.

When it appears that a patient is producing excess fluid in the pleural space a Thoracentesis is used. Excess fluid in the pleural space which can be an indicator of a lung problem, including lung cancer.

During a Thoracentesis procedure, a patient is given a local anesthetic in the chest wall to prevent pain, followed by the insertion of a long needle into the pleural space. The syringe is attached to a vacuum bottle, which draws in fluid from the lungs, and then the needle is then removed and a bandage is placed on the site. The removed fluid is sent for pathologic and microscopic evaluation. Generally, the procedure takes 10 to 15 minutes and there is no downtime, aside from possible soreness at the biopsy site for 1-2 days post-procedure.

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