Paracentesis

Paracentesis is a procedure to remove access fluid from one's abdomen. A needle is used to collect a small sample of fluid to test for disease, cancer or infection. While the drained fluid can be tested, it is more commonly used to evacuate fluid due to pain or discomfort. The fluid will be drained by attaching a tube to the needle and draining the fluid into a container. During this procedure, the patient is awake but a local anesthetic is applied to the area where the needle will be inserted.