825 University Woods
Drive, Ste. 2
New Albany, IN 47150
Phone:
812-945-0145
Fax: 812-949-5443
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The doctors of Gastroenterology of Southern Indiana must often perform
routine procedures for the evaluation and treatment of many digestive tract
problems. The information below is meant as a reference only and should
not be used as diagnostic treatment.
Abdominal Paracentesis
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General information
The abdominal usually contains a small amount of fluid. In certain
conditions, fluid can accumulate in the abdomen. The abdominal tap
is a procedure in which a needle is inserted through the abdominal wall
into the peritoneal cavity to obtain a sample of any fluid that is
present. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Reasons for exam
Laboratory analysis of the withdrawn fluid will help determine why fluid
is present in the abdomen. An abdominal top is frequently
performed to check for internal bleeding.
Equipment
The test may be done in an office setting, in a treatment room, or in
the hospital. The puncture site will be cleansed and shaved, if
necessary. You then receive a local anesthetic. The tap
needle is inserted 1 to 2 inches into the abdomen. Sometimes a
small incision is made to help insert the needle. The sample fluid
is then withdrawn into a syringe. The needle is removed, and a
dressing is applied to the puncture site. If an incision was made,
one or two stitches may be used to close it.
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Benefits
 The benefit of having abdominal paracentesis is for evaluation of blood
in the abdominal cavity or any other condition that needs to be treated
by a physician.
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Risks & side effects
There is a slight chance of the needle puncturing the bowel, bladder, or
a blood vessel in the abdomen. If a large quantity of fluid is
removed, there is a slight risk of lowered blood pressure. There
is also a slight chance of infection. |
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