Paracentesis – everything you need to know about this procedure

Paracentesis is a medical procedure that involves removing fluid from a body cavity or organ using a needle or thin catheter. This is an important and frequently performed test that can help diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. In this article, we will discuss what exactly paracentesis is, what are the indications for its performance, contraindications, preparation for the procedure, the procedure itself and possible complications. You will also learn in what cases paracentesis is used in laryngology and ophthalmology.

Paracentesis – what is this procedure?

Paracentesis, also called body puncture, is a medical procedure in which fluid or tissue is removed from a body cavity or organ using a specially designed needle or catheter. This procedure can be performed in various fields of medicine, depending on the patient’s needs.

Indications for paracentesis

Paracentesis can be performed in many situations, and the main indications for its performance include:

• Diagnosis and treatment of chronic otitis media

• Removal of excess fluid from the abdominal cavity in the case of chronic peritonitis or other diseases

• Diagnosing and treating glaucoma in ophthalmology

• Diagnosis and treatment of lymphomas in ENT

• Removal of pleural fluid in cases of pleurisy

Paracentesis is also used in the diagnosis and treatment of many other diseases, depending on the specific clinical situation.

Paracentesis – contraindications

Although paracentesis is a relatively safe procedure, there are some contraindications that may prevent it from being performed. Contraindications to paracentesis may include:

• Coagulopathy (blood clotting disorder)

• Lowered blood pressure

• Skin infections at the puncture site

• High level of stress in the patient

• Lack of patient consent to perform the procedure

Before performing paracentesis, your doctor evaluates all of these factors to make sure the procedure is safe and effective.

Paracentesis – preparation for the procedure and its course

Before paracentesis is performed, the patient may be asked to take several preparatory steps, such as:

• Signing the consent form for the procedure

• Explaining the procedure and its purpose to the patient

• Preparation of medical tools and equipment

• Use of local or general anesthesia, depending on the type of paracentesis

The paracentesis procedure itself involves gently inserting a needle or catheter into a body cavity or organ to remove fluid or tissue. This procedure is performed by experienced specialists in appropriately equipped medical facilities, which ensures patient safety.

Complications after paracentesis

Although paracentesis is a relatively safe procedure, several potential complications may occur, such as:

• Infection at the puncture site

• Loss of fluid or blood

• Pain or swelling at the site of the procedure

• Allergic reactions to used contrast agents

Patients should be aware of these risks and monitor their well-being after the procedure.

Paracentesis in laryngology and ophthalmology

In ENT, paracentesis is often used to diagnose and treat lymphomas in the neck area and lesions in the mouth and throat. However, in ophthalmology, paracentesis can be used to diagnose and treat glaucoma, which helps reduce the pressure inside the eyeball.

Your suggestions

If you have any questions or suggestions about paracentesis or other medical procedures, please consult your doctor or specialist. It’s always a good idea to talk to a professional to get full information about your health condition and available treatment options.

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Paracentesis is an important diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that can help many patients improve their health. Of course, each case is different, so the decision to perform paracentesis should always be made by a doctor after a thorough assessment of the patient’s condition. It’s important to be aware of this procedure and talk to your doctor to understand how it may help your specific medical situation.