Thoracentesis | Needs & Procedures - ICU & Critical Care | Apex Hospitals

What is Thoracentesis?

Thoracentesis is a medical procedure designed to alleviate discomfort and improve breathing by draining excess fluid or air from the space surrounding the lungs. During thoracentesis, a thin needle is carefully inserted through the chest wall into the pleural space, the narrow gap between the lung's and inner chest wall's pleura. The pleura comprises two layers of membranes that envelop the lungs, with a small amount of fluid inside the space to prevent friction during breathing movements..

Excess fluid accumulates in the pleural space, known as pleural effusion, which can impede normal lung expansion and lead to breathing difficulties. This condition may manifest as shortness of breath and chest pain, which can worsen during physical activity. Thoracentesis helps alleviate these symptoms by draining the accumulated fluid, facilitating improved lung function and relieving discomfort associated with pleural effusion..

Who would need a thoracentesis?

Thoracentesis serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in the management of pleural effusion. It is conducted to identify the underlying cause of pleural effusion and alleviate associated symptoms by draining excess fluid, which is subsequently analysed in a laboratory setting.

This procedure aids in the diagnosis of various health conditions, including:

1. Congestive heart failure (CHF) is the leading cause of pleural effusion.

2. Viruses, fungi, or bacteria cause infections.

3. Cancerous growths.

4. Autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

5. Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

6. A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot in the lung.

7. Empyema is the presence of pus in the pleural space.

8. Liver failure.

9. Tuberculosis (TB).

10. Pneumonia.

11. Adverse reactions to medications.

Your healthcare provider may recommend thoracentesis for additional reasons based on your individual medical history and symptoms.

Procedure Details:

During the procedure

A thoracentesis is typically performed in a hospital setting and usually lasts around 15 minutes. Throughout the procedure, your healthcare provider may instruct you to remain still or hold your breath at various intervals.

While fluid is withdrawn, you may experience pressure or discomfort, but it should not be excruciating. Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or feelings of faintness.

During the thoracentesis procedure, your healthcare provider will:

1. Connect you to monitoring devices to track your heart rate and other vital signs.

2. Administer oxygen through a nasal cannula or mask.

3. Cleanse a portion of your back with an antiseptic solution and cover it with a sterile drape.

4. Numb the area using a needle and local anaesthetic. You may feel a slight pinch during needle insertion. Following this step, your provider may wait a few minutes to ensure the area is adequately numbed.

5. They will make a small incision in your skin and insert another needle between your ribs to extract fluid. They may use a handheld ultrasound device to assist with needle guidance. A tube connected to the needle drains the fluid.

6. Withdraw the needle and apply a bandage to cover the incision. It should heal naturally over time.

After the procedure

Following a thoracentesis, your healthcare provider may conduct another X-ray or ultrasound of your lungs to assess the procedure's effectiveness. If you're discharged following the procedure, your vital signs will continue to be monitored until you're deemed fit to leave.

It's common to experience coughing for up to an hour after a thoracentesis. This is a normal response and aids in the re-expansion of your lungs.

The fluid extracted during the thoracentesis is typically sent to a laboratory for analysis. The lab will examine the fluid for indications of infectious diseases or other underlying causes of pleural effusion. Your healthcare provider will inform you of any findings and their implications for your health.

Speak to our experts about thoracentesis.

Our thoracentesis procedure swiftly and effectively addresses pleural effusion, providing relief and clarity to patients experiencing respiratory discomfort. Conducted by our experienced medical team in a hospital setting, the procedure typically takes only about 15 minutes.

Our skilled providers will ensure your comfort and safety during the thoracentesis, closely monitoring your vital signs. Your well-being is our priority, so please inform us immediately if you experience any chest pains, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Our goal is to provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis to treatment, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

If you have any questions or concerns about thoracentesis or your respiratory health, don't hesitate to contact our expert team. We're here to provide guidance, support, and personalized care every step of the way.