Thoracentesis Guide
- Summary
- Definition
- Considerations
- Other Names
- How the Test is Performed
- How the Test will Feel
- How to Prepare for the Test
- Normal Results
- Risks
- What Abnormal Results Mean
- Why the Test is Performed
Definition
Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid from the space between the lining of the outside of the lungs (pleura) and the wall of the chest. Normally, very little fluid is present in this space. An accumulation of excess fluid between the layers of the pleura is called a pleural effusion .
Other Names
How the Test is Performed
A small area of skin on your chest or back is washed with a sterilizing solution. Some numbing medicine (local anesthetic) is injected in this area. A needle is then placed through the skin of the chest wall into the space around the lungs called the pleural space. Fluid is withdrawn and collected ...
Keep reading...
Encyclopedia: Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is an invasive procedure to remove fluid or air from the pleural space for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. A cannula, or hollow needle, is carefully introduced into the thorax, generally after administration of local anesthesia. The procedure was first described in 1852. The recommended location varies depending upon the source. Some sources recommend the midaxillary line, in the sixth, seventh, or eighth intercostal space. This procedure is indicated when...
Question and Answer
I thought amylase was an enzyme from the pancreas, why would that enzyme be in...
when you get a pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), the pancreatic secretion may enter the pleural space through retroperitoneal space. so if amylase raises in pleural fluid, it may indicates...
Asked by samaletta - 32 months ago
My thoracentesis was done on the left side. Fluid was removed high up on the...
the way they bend you and jack you around doing the first sometimes causes a little trauma to other areas. my wife for no reason bucked off the table and...
Asked by sc17carter - 7 months ago
Forum Search
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interns doing thoracentesis solo
was doing a thoracentesis solo, dropped the lung, and it was all down hill from there. i think thoracentesis is an intern level procedure, and I would expect an intern to be able ...
Aug 02, 2008
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Thoracentesis to remove 1200cc of Plural Fluid at Harborview
getting a Thoracentesis at Harborview Medical Center in downtown Seattle. They removed 1200cc of Plural = Thoracentesis Fluid = Plural Fluid / Plural Effusion Volume = 1200cc On Tuesday August 28th 2007
Sep 02, 2008
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to be ABIM certified: how many of each procedures do...
-ABG -Thoracentesis -Central line (any differentiation between IJ, SC, and Fem?) How many of each procedures do you have to do in order to be board certified in internal medicine...
Jul 31, 2008
Radiation Therapy Slide Show
Radiation therapy treatment planning
This slide show from the Mayo Clinic will guide you through the process of planning for radiation therapy. Before you begin external beam radiation treatment, your radiation therapy team carefully plans every aspect of your treatment in a process called radiation simulation. Radiation therapy treatment planning usually involves positioning your body, making marks on your skin and taking imaging scans.
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Treatment Success for Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is a popular treatment for Thoracentesis.
| Condition | Members | Success |
|---|---|---|
| Prostate Cancer | 4 | 50% |
Overall, 50% (4 members) find Brachytherapy helpful.