Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is a procedure involving the removal of fluid that has accumulated in the pleural space between the lungs and chest wall. The two thin layers of lining that surround the lungs are called the
pleura, and the area between the layers is the pleural space.
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Thoracentesis is a minor procedure that uses a local anesthetic. It is performed by inserting a needle through the chest wall and into the pleural space where the pleural fluid (
pleural effusion) has collected. The fluid is then withdrawn and often sent to pathology to be analyzed.
Pleural effusion often indicates a number of ailments including infection, heart failure or cancer. It is usually a first indication of the presence of metastatic malignancies, especially mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer.
Also known as fluid aspiration or a pleural tap, thoracentesis is typically performed when a chest x-ray or CT scan reveals substantial fluid build-up. Normally, there should be a minimal amount of fluid in the pleural area. Fluid collecting in the pleural area prohibits normal body conditions and affects air flow within the thoracic cavity. A person experiencing a large amount of pleural effusion may experience breathing difficulty and fatigue. Additional symptoms may include chest pain, weight loss and fever.
During the procedure, patients sit on a chair or bed and lean forward with their head and arms resting in front of them. After determining the area in which the needle will be inserted, the area is prepped and disinfected before a local anesthetic is injected into the area. The thoracentesis needle is then inserted through the skin and into the pleural area.
While the removal of the fluid reduces pressure in the pleural space and provides patients with immediate relief of symptoms, the fluid generally returns.