What is paracentesis?
Paracentesis (say "pair-uh-sen-TEE-sus") is a procedure that removes fluid from the belly. The buildup of fluid may be caused by infection, inflammation, an injury, or other problems.
Swelling from too much fluid may cause pain or trouble breathing. The doctor will remove the extra fluid with a needle attached to a tube.
Why is paracentesis done?
Paracentesis may be done to:
- Find the cause of fluid buildup in the belly.
- Diagnose an infection in the peritoneal fluid.
- Check for certain types of cancer.
- Remove a large amount of fluid that is causing pain or trouble breathing or that is affecting how the kidneys or the intestines (bowel) are working.
How is a paracentesis done?
You will empty your bladder before the procedure.
Your doctor or nurse will clean the area of your belly where the needle will go in. Then sterile towels will be put around the area.
You may get a shot of numbing medicine in the skin of your belly. Then your doctor will gently insert a needle where the fluid is. Your doctor may attach a tube (catheter) to the site to help collect the fluid.
After the fluid has drained, your doctor will take out the needle or catheter and put a bandage on the site.
Paracentesis: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
- You have new or worse belly pain.
- You have symptoms of infection from the paracentesis site, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the area.
- Pus draining from the area.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Fluid builds up in your belly again.
- You do not get better as expected.
©2011-2025 Healthwise, Incorporated